A confidential datacenter developer contracted DFWCGI to site fit a 34 MW Compute, 50-MW utility power data center at a location in a suburb of California. The project consisted of initial site evaluations by the civil engineer, architect, and MEP engineer. The site itself was evaluated for current zoning, as well as the requirements for rezoning to allow for the construction of a data facility. Beyond that, initial coordination was performed with COMED for power sourcing to the site. The site was evaluated for existing easements and utilities that could have impacted the feasibility of the data center development.

After preliminary vetting, a feasible site on which to construct a data center was determined. Directives were given to progress to schematic design and entitlements for the site. Studies were performed and provided to gain a better understanding of design needs. The design team was expanded to include acoustical and environmental consultants, who were critical for initial permitting with the city. Building and site schematic designs were developed in coordination with the facilities’ MEP needs and programmatic needs. Concurrently, a basis of design was also developed, which defined the design foundations and assumptions on which the building’s final design would be based. Preliminary major pieces of MEP equipment were selected, including Generators, Chillers, UPS modules, Gas-insulated Switchgear, and Pumps. These components were placed in a three-dimensional building model to ensure proper space planning with the other design trades. Additionally, a utility sub-station concept design was coordinated with the power utility provider and laid out on the site to the local utility’s requirements. Site security needs were discussed, and schematic plans were developed that show the site massing and movement needs, as well as a means of perimeter security.

After preliminary vetting was completed, the architectural team began designing the facility facade in compliance with the local building ordinances, while also meshing the design intent with the client’s branding requirements. Concurrently, the environmental consultant began the air permitting process by collaborating with the MEP engineering team to understand Generator Tier Class, annual run hours, loading on the generators during the annual run hours, and the overall dispersion of the products of combustion. The acoustician team analyzed the generator and chiller product data to evaluate noise dispersion from the site and recommended strategies for noise mitigation to ensure the conceptual design complied with local ordinances and regulations. The civil engineering team studied and developed plans for how to handle grading, utilities and stormwater around the site, and a landscaping team was brought in to conceptually design a harmonizing concept design that blended the facility into the surrounding community.

Once completed, the schematic design drawing and report package were submitted to the Authority Having Jurisdiction (AHJ) for review. The project address was approved to be rezoned, allowing for a data center to be developed. The team is now kicking off the design development portion of the project, with design identified for completion in Early 2026 and energization anticipated in late 2028.