How We Measure PUE At PE2: Method, Metering, & Design Targets

Data centre efficiency metrics are frequently cited across marketing materials, yet true operational efficiency relies on total transparency in how those figures are calculated. At Open DC, as a leading data centre operator committed to set high industry benchmarks, we believe that establishing trust requires publishing our measurement methodology before presenting our operational results. 

Below, we outline how we measure Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) at our state-of-the-art PE2 facility—detail our metering architecture, measurement periods, and how we account for distinct operational environments across both air-cooled and liquid-cooled halls. 

1. Defining PUE & Why Methodology Matters

Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) remains the industry-standard metric for assessing data centre energy efficiency. Defined by The Green Grid, it is calculated as: 

While the formula is straightforward, real-world reporting can vary significantly based on: 

• Metering locations: Where boundaries between facility infrastructure and IT loads are established. 

• Measurement duration: Spot measurements during non-peak hours versus continuous annual averages. 

• Environmental conditions: Seasonal ambient temperature variations unique to tropical climates like Malaysia. 

To deliver true data centre efficiency in Malaysia, Open DC adheres to stringent, standardized metering protocols to ensure our reported numbers are verifiable and repeatable. 

2. Our Metering Infrastructure & Measurement Boundaries

At PE2, we deploy continuous, high-precision Power Quality Meters (PQMs) and smart Power Distribution Units (iPDUs) throughout our power delivery path. 

Key Measurement Points: 

• Total Facility Energy: Measured directly at the main incoming low-voltage (LV) switchboards. This captures all power consumed by IT equipment, cooling infrastructure, power distribution losses, lighting, and auxiliary facility loads. 

• IT Equipment Energy: Measured strictly at the output of the Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) units and verified at smart rack-level PDUs to exclude any downstream distribution losses prior to reaching the server power supplies. 

3. Air Vs. Liquid Cooling Halls: Measuring PE2’s Hybrid Architecture

PE2 is engineered to support both traditional high-density air cooling and next-generation liquid cooling solutions within a single campus. Because liquid cooling directly alters heat rejection mechanics and auxiliary power draw, we measure and isolate metrics across both hall configurations. 

By separating data inputs between air and liquid halls, we provide colocation clients with granular insight into the precise environmental footprint of their specific deployment. 

4. Measurement Period & Environmental Context

To account for humidity and ambient temperature fluctuations in Malaysia, Open DC measures PUE on a continuous 365-day rolling average (PUE Category 2 – Level 2 / Intermediate) rather than relying on short-term snapshot audits. 

• Reporting Interval: Real-time data collected at 15-minute intervals via our integrated Building Management System (BMS). 

• Climate Baseline: Factoring in average ambient wet-bulb temperatures to continuously optimize chiller plant staging and economizer cycles. 

5. PE2 Design Targets Vs. Industry Standards

Open DC designs infrastructure with long-term operational resilience and sustainability at its core. 

These targets reflect optimized electrical distribution paths, high-efficiency variable-speed drives across all pumping systems, and advanced airflow containment strategies engineered specifically for Southeast Asia’s climate. 

Next Steps For Your Deployment 

Transparency in metrics is just the starting point of an optimized infrastructure strategy. Work directly with our engineering team to evaluate how PE2’s cooling architectures and power efficiencies can optimize your operational expenditure and sustainability targets. 

Empowering Southeast Asia’s Digital Future.

For further enquiries 

☎️:  03 8888 8188 (General Line)
📱: 012 3188 0446 (Sales)

📧: enquiry@opendc.my 

Operating Hours: Monday – Friday, 9am – 6pm