In line with our commitment to sustainability, we proudly announce that LCL's Wallonia One data center has achieved the ISO 50001 certification for energy management. This accomplishment marks another significant milestone in LCL's ongoing pursuit of industry-leading standards. Nicolas Coppee, Data Center Manager at LCL Wallonia One, and Mieke Germonprez, Quality Manager and Safety Advisor at LCL, provide insights into the importance of this ISO 50001 certification.
"Securing the ISO 50001 certification underscores our drive to explore more sustainable practices. Our data center is not just a technological hub; it's a pilot project for responsible energy management for both LCL and the industry," emphasises Nicolas. As LCL's flagship facility, Wallonia One proudly holds five ISO certifications. Nicolas notes, "Considering a data center's energy consumption is comparable to a small city, prioritising energy efficiency is imperative for us."
In an era of escalating energy costs, the focus is not only on cost-effectiveness but also on shaping a sustainable future. Nicolas continues, "The ISO 50001 certification seamlessly aligns with our dedication to decarbonisation and our active role in the net-zero transition."
As energy costs surge, strategic and efficient energy management becomes increasingly pivotal for LCL. Notably, energy consumption emerges as our organisation's most significant environmental impact, underlining the vital role of effective energy management in both cost reduction and the pursuit of ambitious environmental goals.
"The road to ISO 50001 wasn't just about meeting standards; it involved instilling a culture of energy consciousness. It's more than a certificate; it's a commitment to a sustainable ethos," notes Mieke. This pursuit adheres to the Trias Energetica principles, emphasising the reduction of energy consumption, integration of renewable energy sources, and optimisation of fossil fuel use.
The certification process encompasses:
• Energy impact assessments.
• A continual improvement process focussed on the energy efficiency.
• Compliance audits.
• Internal process audits.
• The appointment of a dedicated energy coordinator (such as Nicolas Coppee).
Getting the certification was just the start. “Now, we're focusing on sharing knowledge with our team," says Nicolas. We're currently testing significant investments in energy efficiency improvement at LCL Wallonia One, which will serve for all LCL data centers in a second phase. Our commitment goes beyond certifications — it involves staff training, raising awareness, and integrating energy reduction into our DNA.
In the bigger picture, LCL aims to lead in sustainable practices, setting an example for the industry. Our strategic vision involves not just measuring and improving but also a proactive approach to local and sustainable energy production. We're working to set a benchmark for sustainable data centers, responding to our environmental responsibility requested by our planet. LCL Wallonia One's ISO 50001 certification marks a strategic move towards a sustainable future, paving the way for a new era in energy-efficient data center operations.
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