The LoCaCloud Brescia project, by QARNOT, aims to provide high-performance cloud computing (HPC) services based on an innovative data center infrastructure, specifically designed to capture and exploit the heat generated. The approach aims to deploy data centers as close as possible to where they are needed, in this case the urban heating network of Brescia, operated by A2A.
The technical innovation proposed by Qarnot is based on a patented technology that enables the integration of an original economic model based on the valorization of the energy produced. Considering the heat produced by servers in operation as a by-product, rather than a waste product, is a game-changer in the data center sector, revolutionizing the cost structure of cloud services.
To this end, Qarnot, in partnership with A2A, will be deploying a planned 1.8 MW installation, which will supply 13 GWh of decarbonized heat and avoid the emission of around 23,000 tonnes of CO2 equivalent over a ten-year period.
As part of the Innovation Fund 2023 program, Benkei supported Qarnot in submitting the project and preparing the numerous appendices: Strategic analysis and co-writing of documents (innovation, operational maturity, business plan, CO2 savings…); exchanges, advice and iterations with the finance team for the construction of financial projection models; final proofreading.
“Working with Benkei was essential to the success of our Innovation Fund project. Their expertise of the Innovation Fund program and their support at every stage of the application process enabled us to structure and write a winning application. Benkei is easy to work with, and I recommend it! After obtaining EIC Accelerator financing, this new success confirms the quality of Benkei’s support.”
Nicolas Sainthérand, Innovation Manager, QARNOT