LG Uplus announced on July 7th its plans to conduct a pilot project integrating artificial intelligence (AI) and digital twin technology to enhance cooling efficiency in data centers. The initiative involves close collaboration with LG Electronics and LG CNS and aims to advance LG’s capabilities in data center operations.
The core of this project leverages AI-powered automatic control of cooling systems alongside digital twin technology, with the goal of reducing cooling energy consumption by up to 10%. Digital twin technology allows for highly accurate virtual replicas of physical data center environments, enabling simulation and optimization of operational conditions.
The pilot will initially be implemented at LG Uplus’s Pyeongchon 2 Center in Anyang, Gyeonggi Province. Key cooling facilities such as chillers and Computer Room Air Conditioning (CRAC) units will employ AI control algorithms and digital twin models, utilizing real-time data to determine optimal operating conditions.
The results of this pilot are expected to be expanded across other major LG Uplus data centers, including Pangyo, Gasan, and Seocho centers, which are collectively managed through an integrated operation system. Plans also include extending systems to Nohhyun and Sangam centers within this year. The upcoming Paju center, scheduled for completion in 2025, will incorporate an AI-based integrated management system reflecting the pilot’s achievements.
LG Electronics is responsible for developing control algorithms for CRAC units using digital twin technology and applying these to actual equipment to optimize performance. LG CNS will design the AI control system based on precise virtual models of data centers, building a platform adaptable to various environments.
LG Uplus is overseeing the project and has established a dedicated proof-of-concept (PoC) test room within Pyeongchon 2 Center to facilitate real-time data collection and validate control algorithms. The three companies signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to ensure long-term technological cooperation and stability.
The pilot encompasses three stages: cooling and air conditioning optimization, predictive maintenance of equipment, and integrated management of power and facilities. The full-scale demonstration is scheduled to commence in September.
Jung Sook-kyung, Senior Manager at LG Uplus’s AI Data Center Business, stated, “While AI-based management systems are gaining interest across the data center industry, real implementation cases remain rare. Through this pilot, we aim to realize significant cooling energy savings and strengthen LG Group’s overall smart data center competitiveness.”
