Schneider and GreenScale to Build Sustainable Data Centres

Schneider Electric and GreenScale are working together to develop a new approach to data centre design, focused on supporting AI workloads while improving operational efficiency and reliability.

The collaboration centres on creating reference architectures – standardised blueprints for building and operating data centres – that integrate automation, predictive analytics and condition-based maintenance from the outset.

These designs are intended for GreenScale’s European campuses, which are being developed in locations with strong renewable energy potential.

By embedding intelligence directly into infrastructure, the partners aim to reduce total cost of ownership (TCO) for building, operating and maintaining a facility over its lifecycle.

Designing for AI and high-performance workloads

The growth of AI cloud and high-performance computing is placing new demands on data centre infrastructure.

These workloads require higher power density more advanced cooling and greater operational precision than traditional environments.

Schneider Electric will provide engineering and design consultancy through its Secure Power and Services divisions.

GreenScale contributes operational expertise, including software platforms and digital twin technology – virtual models that replicate physical assets to monitor and optimise performance.

Together, the companies are developing systems that improve predictability and reduce risk by using real-time data.

Predictive analytics allows operators to anticipate equipment issues before they occur, while condition-based maintenance ensures that servicing takes place only when needed rather than on fixed schedules.

Dan Thomas, CEO of GreenScale, says: “As demand for AI, Cloud and HPC accelerates in Europe, data centre operators must rethink how facilities are designed and managed.

“Our work with Schneider Electric demonstrates how advanced data centre architectures and digital innovation can unlock new levels of automation, efficiency and resilience, and will set a new standard for intelligent design to benefit our customers.”

Embedding automation and operational control

A key element of the partnership is the integration of automation into every stage of the data centre lifecycle.

This includes remote monitoring systems, intelligent sensors and unified control platforms that connect physical infrastructure with digital management tools.

These systems allow operators to track performance in real time, improving visibility across power cooling and IT equipment.

By analysing this data, facilities can adjust operations dynamically, maintaining efficiency while reducing the risk of downtime.

Thierry Chamayou, VP Cloud and Service Providers EMEA at Schneider Electric, says: “GreenScale’s vision for its European data centres represents a new era in advanced design, where automation, efficiency and real-time visibility are embedded from day one.

“By combining expertise from our Secure Power and Services divisions, we are helping to create a resilient, AI-ready infrastructure platform that will operate efficiently even in the most demanding environments.”

Reducing costs and improving performance

The use of predictive analytics and condition-based maintenance also affects long-term costs.

By identifying potential issues early, operators can avoid unplanned downtime and extend the lifespan of equipment.

This approach reduces unnecessary maintenance while improving asset performance, helping to lower lifecycle costs.

It also supports more efficient supply chain planning, as parts and resources can be allocated based on actual operational needs rather than fixed assumptions.

These capabilities are particularly relevant in remote or emerging markets, where access to on-site expertise may be limited.

Automated systems and remote monitoring allow teams to maintain high standards of performance without requiring constant physical intervention.

GreenScale’s developments are designed to support high-density AI clusters and cloud environments, combining energy efficiency with consistent operational output.

Through its partnership with Schneider Electric, the company is aligning infrastructure design with the evolving demands of digital services, ensuring that data centres can deliver both performance and efficiency across their lifecycle.