Liquid Cooled Hyperscale Project in Frankfurt

Black & White Engineering served as Lead Designer for one building as part of a multi-building campus in Frankfurt. This was a project that required a significant technology pivot during due diligence, from conventional cooling to a liquid-cooled solution, without compromising the delivery timeline or permit programme.

The Brief

The appointment covered site due diligence through to Stage 3 design, including MEP and civil/structural tender package coordination for early contractor engagement. A PCSA role was also supported to assist General Contractor onboarding during procurement. Securing permit approval within programme was a critical milestone for the client.

Our Approach

Technology Pivot to Liquid Cooling

During due diligence, the project transitioned from a conventional cooling approach to liquid-cooled technology. Black & White managed that pivot as Lead Designer, adapting the design strategy without material impact on programme or tender readiness.

Early Contractor Engagement

We coordinated the MEP and civil/structural tender package to support early contractor engagement, and assisted with the PCSA role to ensure a smooth General Contractor onboarding process during procurement.

Permit Approval

The project permit was approved within eight months — a significant achievement given the technical complexity of the campus and the regulatory environment in Frankfurt.

The Result

• Over 65MW IT capacity over 10 data halls with 6+1 block redundancy
• Successful pivot to liquid-cooled technology during due diligence, with no material programme impact
• MEP and CSA tender package coordinated for early contractor engagement
• PCSA support provided through General Contractor onboarding
• Permit approved within eight months
• Design features include LV generators, modular electrical pods and rainwater harvesting for enhanced PUE