East Africa is taking a giant step forward in the digital realm with the launch of NBOX1, the region’s first and largest hyperscale data centre.

This groundbreaking project is a collaborative effort between IXAfrica Data Centres, a Nairobi-based company, and Schneider Electric, a global leader in energy management and automation.

A Technological Powerhouse

NBOX1 isn’t just big; it’s designed to be the most technologically advanced digital hub for cloud, colocation, and connectivity services in East Africa, opening up a market of over 300 million people. This translates to several key benefits:

Unmatched Scalability: NBOX1 can accommodate the massive computing needs of major tech companies and cater to the growing demands of local businesses.
Carrier Neutrality: Businesses have the flexibility to choose from various network providers, ensuring optimal connectivity.
AI Readiness: The data centre is equipped to handle the complex requirements of artificial intelligence applications, a crucial factor for future innovation.
Exceptional Reliability: NBOX1 boasts a Tier 3+ certification, guaranteeing exceptional uptime and minimal disruption for critical operations.

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Sustainability at the Core

NBOX1 prioritises environmental responsibility. Here’s how:

Renewable Energy Integration: The data centre is powered by Kenya’s growing renewable energy sources like solar and geothermal, minimising its carbon footprint.
Energy Efficiency: Schneider Electric’s EcoStruxure for Data Centres platform optimises energy consumption, contributing to a design Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of 1.25, a key metric for data centre efficiency.

Powering the Future with Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric’s expertise played a pivotal role in making NBOX1 a reality. Their EcoStruxure for Data Centres platform provides a comprehensive solution that ensures:

Uninterrupted Power Supply: NBOX1 utilises a robust power train with Schneider Electric’s medium voltage (MV) and low voltage (LV) switchgear, along with Galaxy VX modular UPS systems with lithium-ion batteries. This safeguards against power outages and fluctuations, guaranteeing a remarkable 99.999% uptime.
Local Expertise: Schneider Electric collaborated with local consultants to ensure the power solution meets international standards while addressing the specific needs of the Kenyan grid.

More Than Just a Data Centre: A Catalyst for Growth

The launch of NBOX1 is expected to have a ripple effect on the Kenyan economy:

Job Creation: Attracting global technology companies will create new employment opportunities in the tech sector.
Investment Boost: NBOX1 is likely to stimulate further investment in Kenya’s digital infrastructure.
Innovation Hub: The data centre creates an environment for innovation by offering advanced resources to local businesses.
Digital Transformation: NBOX1 empowers businesses across various sectors to embrace cloud-based solutions and enhance their digital capabilities.

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A Shared Vision for a Sustainable Digital Future

The collaboration between IXAfrica and Schneider Electric goes beyond technology. Both companies share a commitment to building a sustainable future for data centres. NBOX1 exemplifies this commitment by incorporating renewable energy sources and prioritising energy efficiency.

NBOX1 marks a significant milestone in East Africa’s technological journey. This state-of-the-art data centre positions Kenya as a major player in the global digital landscape and paves the way for a more connected, innovative, and sustainable future for the region.