Kao Data Centre Campus
Client
Kao Data
Project location
Harlow, United Kingdom
Project date
2024
A Sustainable, High-Tech Future
As part of the Zumtobel Group, Thorn Lighting is proud to have worked alongside our sister brand, Zumtobel, to deliver high-performance lighting solutions at Kao Data’s cutting-edge campus. Our robust and energy-efficient luminaires have played a vital role in supporting the site’s ambitious goals around energy efficiency, operational resilience, and environmental responsibility.
Kao Data is at the forefront of the data centre industry, with a strong focus on AI, advanced computing, and sustainability. Located between Cambridge and London, the 15-acre campus stands on the historic site of Sir Charles Kao’s invention of fibre optic technology in 1966. With over £230 million invested, the facility hosts four carrier-neutral data centres, built to support an IT load of 40MW – all powered by 100% renewable energy. The site is scalable to 83MW, positioning it as a benchmark for modern, environmentally conscious digital infrastructure in the UK.
Products Used
A Phased, Precision-Engineered Lighting Solution
Thorn Lighting has been integral to multiple phases of lighting implementation across the campus, beginning with KLON01 in 2019, followed by KLON02, and continuing with the current KLON03 development. In close collaboration with Zumtobel, JCA Engineering, and MEIT Consultants, we provided lighting solutions that not only meet Kao Data’s high-performance demands but also support their impressive low PUE (Power Usage Effectiveness) rating of 1.2.
Our durable, intelligent lighting systems ensure optimal visibility, reliability, and energy efficiency, key for a mission-critical environment where every detail matters.
The key goal of this project was to deliver a lighting system that combines exceptional energy efficiency with the rigorous operational demands of a high-performance data centre. Kao Data aimed to implement a solution that ensures optimal illumination in technical areas, significantly reduces energy usage, and supports long-term sustainability. A further objective was to elevate the visual appeal of the facility, aligning with Kao Data’s forward-thinking and innovative identity.
A Future-Proof Lighting Scheme
Thorn supplied a range of high-performance luminaires across the site, ensuring both functional and aesthetic goals were achieved. In the technical and back-of-house areas, Thorn’s Aquaforce Pro vapourproof battens were selected for their durability and efficiency, while ForceLED luminaires provided robust, weather-resistant lighting for external gantries. In office spaces, Omega Pro 2 panels delivered uniform, glare-free illumination, and Chalice downlights offered stylish and efficient lighting in toilets and stairwells.
As part of a comprehensive solution delivered in collaboration with the Zumtobel Group, Thorn’s offering was seamlessly integrated with Zumtobel’s TECTON continuous-row system. Known for its longevity, exceptional glare control, and modular flexibility, TECTON played a key supporting role. Together, Thorn and its sister brand Zumtobel provided a lighting scheme that not only exceeded Kao Data’s technical and sustainability expectations but also contributed to the site achieving BREEAM 'Excellent' certification, reinforcing its status as one of the UK’s most advanced and environmentally responsible data centers.
"Partnering with Zumtobel and Thorn, has been a factor in achieving our sustainability and operational goals at Kao Data. Zumtobel and Thorn’s commitment to quality and innovation has truly made a difference in our ongoing mission to provide world-class data services."
Mike Tamblingson, Operations Director, Kao Data
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