Data centres are one of the fastest-growing building types in the world, driven by the rapid expansion of cloud computing, artificial intelligence and digital services.
But behind the headlines about hyperscale facilities and massive power demands lies the practical reality of designing, constructing and operating these highly specialised buildings.
This panel on day two of ARBS 2026 brings together experts directly involved in the design, construction and performance of data centres to explore the real-world challenges shaping the sector.
From managing enormous cooling loads and rising energy demand to navigating water use, infrastructure constraints and performance ratings, the discussion will focus on what it actually takes to build efficient, reliable data centres today.
For HVACR and building services professionals, it offers an inside look at the technical, operational and sustainability considerations driving the next generation of digital infrastructure.
The panel moderator for this session is Dr Simon Bradwell, PhD, CEng, FIEAust, chair of the ARBS Foundation and the managing director of ebm-papst A&NZ Pty Ltd.
Bradwell has worked with Standards Australia and federal and state governments on fan efficiency and other motor-related issues.
His 25 years of fan industry experience and his engineering work spans Europe, Africa and Australasia. He is a chartered engineer with a doctorate in engineering from the UK.
In 2015 Bradwell was recognised as a Fellow of Engineers Australia.
He also volunteers his time to ARBS Exhibitions, AREMA, FMA-ANZ, VU and Wyndham Tech School.
Bradwell will be supported by panelist Adam Heaton, developer relationship lead, Asset Planning & Delivery at Greater Western Water.