Published on Apr 8th 2026
The AVK – Pure Data Centres project represents a significant shift in how European energy infrastructure is designed and executed. As one of the first large scale microgrid enabled energy centres supporting data centre operations in Europe, it provides a blueprint for future resilient power systems. While microgrids are common in other global markets, implementing this technology at such a scale in Europe required a sophisticated approach to engineering and system integration.
Designer Group played a central role in this transition, delivering the full Mechanical and Electrical installation. The project serves as a prime example of how complex M&E infrastructure can be harnessed to support a highly integrated and future ready energy environment.
Mastering Electrical Integration Across Complex Energy Systems
Designer Group’s electrical scope encompassed the full spectrum of critical infrastructure activities essential to modern energy centres. The delivery included plant movement and installation support, comprehensive MV cable installation, advanced containment systems, complete LV power infrastructure and intricate controls cabling networks.
The defining challenge was not simply installation, but orchestrating the interfaces between package plant, site infrastructure, control systems, and commissioning requirements across a live, operational environment. This demanded expertise in coordinating MV distribution networks, LV power systems, plant controls and complex routing through challenging plant environments.
Strategic interface management between physical infrastructure and control philosophy across multiple vendor systems.
Comprehensive integration of vendor control panels and associated site infrastructure.
Precise coordination across containment routing through complex plant and service environments.
The result was a unified electrical environment where every component operates as part of an integrated energy network rather than standalone systems.
Mechanical Delivery of Dual Fuel and Sustainable Energy Systems
The mechanical scope centred on delivering complex, high integrity pipework systems that enable flexible power generation strategies. Designer Group’s installation supports both primary and backup fuel sources through sophisticated distribution networks.
The mechanical installation encompassed high pressure natural gas systems with pressure reduction and distribution, comprehensive HVO fuel storage and transfer systems, advanced exhaust after treatment for emissions control, engineered cooling and treated water systems, and precision instrument air services.
These multi service pipework networks span multiple buildings and work fronts, requiring exceptional coordination and strict adherence to pressure and safety standards. The high integrity approach ensures reliable fuel delivery across nine dual fuel engines, providing the operational flexibility essential for modern energy infrastructure.
Published on Apr 8th 2026
Precision Commissioning and Progressive Energisation
Testing and commissioning represented one of the most technically demanding aspects of the project. The heavily interfaced nature of the systems required Designer Group to develop sophisticated coordination protocols for progressive energisation and system proving.
The commissioning strategy involved careful sequencing to ensure installed infrastructure, vendor panels and plant interfaces could be validated in the correct operational order. This systematic approach addressed the complex interdependencies between mechanical, electrical and control systems while maintaining strict safety protocols.
Key delivery achievements included successful coordination between Designer Group installed electrical infrastructure and specialist vendor packages, precise alignment of installation completion with controls integration readiness, and validated panel interfaces with correctly landed alarms and control signals.
The process encompassed comprehensive pressure testing, integrated system testing, and the complex sequencing required for seamless transitions between gas and HVO fuel systems.
Pioneering the Future of Energy Infrastructure
The delivery of the AVK-Pure Data Centres project demonstrates the growing importance of integrated M&E delivery in the energy sector. As the demand for flexible and resilient power grows across Ireland and Europe, the ability to coordinate complex, high performance systems becomes a key differentiator.
Through this project, Designer Group has contributed to a new standard in energy infrastructure. The insights gained from Europe’s first microgrid enabled energy centre will continue to inform how the industry approaches the next generation of data centre power systems. By focusing on integration, dual fuel flexibility and precise commissioning, the project proves that European infrastructure is ready for the challenges of a decentralised energy future.
Image credits: AVK
