Bangkok: Governor Chatchart Sittipunt has revealed that an extensive inspection of data centers is currently underway across Bangkok, with additional checklists introduced to bolster security measures. The inspection has identified 43 data centers, primarily small facilities nestled within buildings and standalone units, while six larger centers have applied for official permits. Governor Chatchart emphasized that permits for three centers have been suspended, with efforts focused on enhancing safety protocols concerning air pollution, noise, heat, and the overall well-being of nearby communities.
According to Thai News Agency, the announcement regarding the progress of data center inspections was made jointly by Governor Chatchart, Mr. Wisanu Trapsompol, and Mr. Pornprom Wikitseth, Deputy Governors of Bangkok. The data centers discovered thus far are mainly embedded within various buildings without obtaining official permits. The Bangkok Metropolitan Administration (BMA), in collaboration with the Ministry of Digital Economy and Society (DE), has uncovered a total of 43 data centers operating within buildings across Bangkok. These centers, once known as computer centers or cloud systems, have been around for 26 years. Additionally, six standalone data centers have sought permits.
The primary concern arises from the standalone data centers, as their construction permits have been delayed for three centers to reassess safety standards and address legal loopholes. The 43 data centers within buildings were found to have relatively low power consumption, with most not requiring permits for oil storage due to their small size. Despite the peak electricity usage in Bangkok reaching 9,000 megawatts, the data centers only consume 270 megawatts, demonstrating that they are not as large-scale as those in other provinces.
Of the six standalone data centers, three were established between 2019 and 2022. The BMA has scrutinized their safety standards, primarily using building control laws to verify structural modifications. Large, standalone data centers typically undergo international certification to ensure compliance with standards, with updates conducted every three years.
The checklist developed for resource usage includes verifying fuel usage according to Department of Energy Business regulations and ensuring compliance with electricity and water usage criteria set by the Electricity Authority and the Metropolitan Waterworks Authority. Public and environmental impact assessments are divided into sections, including water and air pollution checks, with real-time monitoring equipment installed for air quality assessments. Additionally, a monitoring system for Legionella bacteria in cooling towers is in place, with biannual checks ensuring safety.
A heat monitoring checklist has been introduced to address public concerns about potential heat buildup, with 24-hour temperature checks conducted within a 500-meter radius of data centers to ensure temperature differences do not exceed 2 degrees Celsius. Fire prevention and suppression systems are also part of the checklist, with initial inspection standards established while awaiting BMA committee approval.
Mr. Pornprom Wikitseth provided further details regarding noise pollution complaints from Bang Kapi, attributed to nighttime generator testing. This prompted the BMA to implement a two-level noise monitoring checklist to ensure compliance with legal noise limits.
Governor Chatchart assured that Bangkok is actively investigating while awaiting urban planning regulation updates. The data centers, measuring 20 to 25 megawatts, adhere to legal fuel accumulation regulations managed by the Department of Energy Business. Stringent measures will be enforced to address environmental impacts and safety concerns, ensuring the situation remains under control.
In response to recent concerns over oil contamination in the drainage system near Chuea Phloeng Road, efforts have been made to trace the source of the issue. The oil was traced to high-pressure pipelines, with ongoing investigations to identify potential leaks. Although no main pipe leaks were found, experts are exploring other possibilities, including old pipes or cavities. A joint meeting is scheduled to analyze the leaked oil, aiding in identifying its origin.
Source: Thai News Agency