Honeywell Expands Data Center Operations to Include Power and Utilities
Honeywell Technologies is expanding its data center operations beyond traditional building systems and security to include on-site power and utilities. The company's current focus remains within data halls, but it anticipates a growing role for its industrial technologies as data centers become denser and face increasing pressure to generate their own electricity.
Honeywell already provides fire protection, building management, security, and software integration for data centers. It is now exploring infrastructure outside the data hall, including systems for electricity generation and central utilities. The company's experience in other industrial settings covers gas measurement, electrical systems, and cooling.
Adhishesh Sood, Senior Director of Business Development at Honeywell, noted that data centers are gradually converting into power generation assets as they are required to supply their own electricity. In facilities with gas-fired generation, Honeywell can monitor fuel before it reaches a turbine and manage utility systems.
In Australia, data center projects are evolving in size and technical requirements. Rhys Crabb, Director of Offering Management at Honeywell ANZ, observed growing interest in new capacity with greater density and AI capability. While retrofitting existing facilities for AI is under discussion, most activity involves new developments.
Honeywell aims to connect separate building and infrastructure systems through a central management platform. Crabb emphasized that integration should serve the operator's goals rather than merely collect data. The company also offers operational technology security, which extends its work to the systems that run the facility.
Customers are not required to purchase every component from Honeywell. The company can integrate third-party systems, ensuring compatibility with other suppliers' equipment. Delivery in Australia and New Zealand involves both channel partners and Honeywell Building Solutions, with roles varying by product, domain, and contract.