In June 2025, we launched our state-of-the-art Manchester data centre, MCR2, a facility designed with sustainability at its core. Among its many sustainability features, the heat reuse capability stands out as a prime example of how data centres can contribute to environmental responsibility while supporting local communities.
Heat reuse capability at MCR2: a sustainable step forward
Posted on in News
Community support through heat reuse
Turning waste heat into an opportunity
Data centres are known for generating significant amounts of heat, often considered a by-product. But MCR2 has been designed to allow the transfer of its thermal load via heat exchangers and a heat pump system to a local community heating network. This approach not only reduces the energy required for cooling the data centre but also enables the reuse of waste heat for residential and community projects in Wythenshawe, Manchester.
With a housing development of 700–1,500 dwellings planned just 20 metres from the site, the potential for this heat reuse system is considerable. Once the necessary infrastructure is in place, the excess heat generated by MCR2 and its colocated equipment could provide a stable, sustainable energy source for these homes. This innovative approach reflects a shift in perception, demonstrating how proximity to a data centre can actually be advantageous for local communities.
Sustainability embedded in design
From the outset, sustainability has been central to MCR2’s ethos. The facility, constructed next to our original Manchester site (MCR1), incorporates the latest sustainability best practices. Key features include:
- Renewable energy: MCR2 is powered entirely by 100% renewable electricity. In addition, solar PV panels can generate over 83,000 kWh annually, reducing CO2 emissions by more than 7.4 tonnes each year.
- Efficient cooling: a chilled water-cooling system with free cooling technology minimises energy use, while the facility is designed to handle external temperatures exceeding 40°C, mitigating the issues caused by temperature rise.
- Green construction: the project involved demolishing an outdated building to create a modern, energy-efficient facility. Based on the embodied carbon assessment carried out to measure the environmental impact of the construction phases and life cycle of MCR2, materials were sourced locally where possible, and waste from the demolition was recycled. A biodiversity plan was also implemented to protect and restore local ecosystems.
Collaborating for sustainable heat reuse
The success of the heat reuse project relies on collaboration between Datum, Manchester City Council, and regeneration partner Muse. While MCR2 has been designed with heat reuse capability, further external investment will be required to build the heat network itself. Feasibility studies and detailed calculations have been conducted to estimate heat output and ensure the system’s viability. However, bold decision-making and funding from local stakeholders will be essential to realise the full potential of this initiative.
Fortunately, the project aligns with Manchester’s redevelopment goals, particularly its focus on sustainability and net-zero initiatives. By integrating heat reuse into the initial construction, MCR2 demonstrates the value of forward-thinking design. Retrofitting such a system would have been far more complex and costly, making this proactive approach a model for future developments.
A blueprint for sustainable growth
This project highlights the importance of collaboration between industry, local government, and developers to identify and implement sustainable solutions. By developing solutions for capturing and repurposing waste heat, it is possible to address key challenges such as lowering our carbon footprint and tackling rising heating costs for local residents.
As a data centre operator in an energy-intensive industry, we understand the importance of minimising our environmental impact while delivering the essential data centre capacity that UK businesses rely on. Building on the insights gained from our MCR2 construction, we are applying these learnings to the development of our FRN2 data centre, located next to our flagship facility in Farnborough. If you’re considering moving your business-critical IT infrastructure and workloads off premise, get in touch with us today to explore how we can support your needs.