NEXTDC D1 Darwin Data Centre, Darwin, NT

The NEXTDC D1 Darwin data centre is a key component of the Darwin-Jakarta-Singapore Cable (DJSC) system, a 7,700 km network enhancing connectivity between Australia and Asia. D1 Darwin also anchors Project Horizon, a 2,000 km fibre system connecting with the DJSC and linking Darwin to Perth via Port Hedland and the Pilbara, completing the national fibre backbone between all mainland capitals. In partnership with Vocus and the Northern Territory Government, D1 Darwin aims to drive economic development and technological advancement, transforming Darwin into a major data hub by attracting data-dependent organisations.

NEXTDC’s vision for the project is to maintain its renowned standards of power, security and connectivity, ensuring that this 500 m² regional data centre – much smaller than their typical facilities – meets the highest standards of reliability and performance. Despite its compact size, the facility is designed to deliver 100% uptime, secure access to major cloud platforms and rapid connectivity, all while achieving the highest level of design certification: Uptime Institute Tier IV. Post-construction, the facility will undergo rigorous testing to affirm the Tier IV rating, ensuring it meets the stringent requirements for operational resilience and reliability.

As the lead design manager, our responsibilities extend far beyond conventional engineering services. We played a pivotal role in orchestrating a seamless and efficient project delivery process that aligns with NEXTDC’s standards and strategic objectives. Being the central point of coordination for all project stakeholders, our team ensured effective communication and collaboration among teams and external partners. NDY’s focus was delivering a value-for-money outcome while upholding NEXTDC’s quality and brand integrity, ensuring that clients receive premium service levels regardless of the facility’s size.

Our design for D1 Darwin incorporates several innovative features tailored to the unique environmental and operational challenges of the Darwin region. Given the cyclone-prone nature of the area, ensuring the facility’s resilience was paramount. Leveraging our experience with the PH1 facility in Port Hedland, we worked closely with structural engineers to develop robust site protection measures. These included reinforced structural elements and strategic placement of critical infrastructure to minimise potential damage from extreme weather events. This approach means that the data centre can maintain operations during and after cyclones, providing uninterrupted service to clients.

To make sure that D1 Darwin aligned with NEXTDC’s brand and vision, we worked with them to identify the minimum necessary amenities and plan spatial optimisation. This planning ensured alignment with NEXTDC’s high standards while facilitating smooth collaboration with external providers, including local authorities, utilities and service providers. By integrating these elements effectively, we optimised the site’s utilisation and set the stage for future expansion on 2 adjacent plots.

Darwin’s hot and humid climate posed significant challenges for maintaining an optimal environment within the data centre. When considering the HVAC system, we opted for a ducted variable refrigerant flow (VRF) system due to its high efficiency and flexibility in managing varying cooling demands. This system allows for precise temperature control, which is crucial for maintaining equipment and the reliability of data centre operations. Additionally, the VRF system’s energy efficiency reduces operational costs for NEXTDC.

With the data centre’s proximity to residential areas, mitigating noise was a key consideration. From the project’s outset, we conducted extensive noise logging and 3D modelling to understand the potential impact on the local community, gaining insights for council submissions. Our engineers designed acoustic solutions such as soundproofing critical equipment and strategically placing noise-generating components away from residential boundaries. These measures enabled compliance with local regulations and minimised disturbance to the local community.

Our sustainable design solutions included the installation of an electric vehicle (EV) charging facility, provision for rooftop solar panels and the use of light-coloured roofing materials to reduce the heat island effect. Additionally, we incorporated high WELS rated fixtures for indoor water use optimisation and high colour rendition lighting for enhanced comfort. Electric instantaneous hot water systems were used in lieu of storage or gas systems, thereby saving energy. The data centre is predicted to achieve a NABERS 4 star energy rating at full capacity. Beyond the data centre, the remaining 900 m² of the site is dedicated to plant areas, loading docks, pedestrian entries and a car park. Impressively, 10% of this area has been allocated for landscaping, enhancing green spaces. This is a notable achievement given the site’s constraints.

Anticipating potential challenges in regional Darwin with limited availability of skilled local contractors, we designed solutions with minimal maintenance requirements and high reliability, using proven industry standards to ensure long-term operational efficiency. As lead design manager, NDY set this key target and aligned the project team’s efforts to meet NEXTDC’s reliability expectations.

D1 Darwin reflects NEXTDC’s dedication to top-tier infrastructure, aligning with their high professional standards and vision of enhanced connectivity while contributing to regional economic and technological advancement. Positioning Darwin as a key digital hub, D1 Darwin will benefit local businesses, communities and resource operators. It will also support regional growth and international connectivity, while aiding stakeholders from remote Indigenous communities to resource operators in the Pilbara.