Centro Svizzero di Calcolo Scientifico (CSCS), Lugano TI
Cutting-edge technology and optimised energy efficiency
ETH Zurich operates its supercomputer network, CSCS, in Tessin in order to be competitive on the global stage in cutting-edge science and research. The centre enables research to be conducted on the environment, climate, health and business. The 1991 building no longer met energy specifications as supercomputers produce enormous amounts of heat.
Simple, flexible structures, functional organisation of space and the facility to divide the project into phases - these are the main features of the sustainable building, and environmentally friendly cooling technology forms its core. The location enables cooling water to be drawn from the lake with a pipeline only three kilometres in length. The exhaust heat from the CSCS is to be used to heat a new district in the planning stage and also supply hot water to it.
Television
«Einstein» auf SRF vom 16.01.2014 (in german)
SF Tagesschau vom 31.08.2012 (in german)
Contact person | Kuno Zimmermann |
Client | ETH Zurich, Abteilung Immobilien |
User | Swiss National Supercomputing Centre CSCS |
Architects and general contractors | Itten+Brechbühl AG |
Start of construction | 2010 |
Start of operation | 2012 |
Floor area | 5400 m2 computing centre 2600 m2 office building |
Photos | Roger Frei, Zurich / Marcelo Villada Ortiz, Lugano |