At LCL Data Centers, we lead by example in sustainability within the data center industry. LCL Wallonia One in Gembloux exemplifies this commitment. The recent expansion of our solar park underscores our dedication to sustainable energy solutions. Nicolas Coppée, Data Center Manager at LCL Wallonia One, shares insights into what this development means for our company and outlines the future (sustainable) plans for Gembloux.
We recently expanded the solar park at LCL Wallonia One, adding 1,300 photovoltaic panels to the existing 2,000, bringing the total to 3,300. This increase not only boosts our capacity by an additional 450 kW—covering an extra 10% of our energy needs—but also underscores our strategic move towards greater energy independence. Nicolas Coppée remarks, "This investment aligns perfectly with our commitment to a sustainable path. As our data center grows, so does our need for energy. Producing a growing share ourselves sustainably benefits both us and the planet. Local production also eliminates the need for energy transport and the associated costs."
The solar park's location and setup also reflect our ecological ethos. "It’s a visual testament to our sustainable responsibilities," Coppée explains. "The decision to place solar panels on grass rather than concrete quite literally shows our commitment to environmental stewardship, making a strong impression on customers and visitors."
The solar park in Gembloux is currently unique at LCL, but Nicolas hopes that it can benefit the different sites: “in the future, we would like to produce energy in Wallonia and be able to use it in our other data centers. That type of energy sharing is already possible in Flanders but should also become possible in Wallonia soon.” An interesting perspective for the future.
The integration of new solar technology with our existing infrastructure presented unique challenges. "The project took longer than expected," Coppée shares. "We initiated the expansion just before the energy crisis, complicating the search of the right partner for the installation and causing delays in receiving necessary parts. Additionally, extensive rainfall delayed material delivery. We persevered, and now, with all certifications nearly complete, we just need one final stamp of approval."
Though the solar park is one of the gems of LCL, Nicolas already has new ideas for the future: other renewable energy sources, such as wind turbines, could complement our solar efforts by providing energy around the clock and during less sunny periods. “Belgium isn’t the sunniest country, which is why supplementing solar power with wind energy and innovative battery storage solutions could significantly enhance our sustainability.” Right now, if we have an overproduction, we must put it on the grid, which sometimes even ends up costing us money. “And who knows, they are also developing panels that can turn rain into electricity, which would be ideal for Belgium”, he adds humorously.
Heat recovery is another area fit for innovation. “Plans are underway to potentially use excess heat from LCL Wallonia One to warm nearby facilities, such as a planned hotel, or even the houses surrounding the industrial area, but nothing is set in stone yet. It’s all about finding the right partners to set these innovative plans into motion.”
Being the first of LCL’s data centers to receive the highly respected ISO 50001 for energy management, LCL Wallonia One is a pioneer, but Nicolas hopes that the other data centers will follow. "We aim to reduce energy consumption and improve PUE at all sites," Coppée states, highlighting a strategic goal to align all sites with these high standards.
"We at LCL are proud of the steps we are taking towards a sustainable and efficient future," concludes Coppée. "Our journey towards a greener tomorrow is filled with promising technologies and innovative solutions. We like to dream big.” So, we invite you to join us as we continue to do so, while acting responsibly.
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