In a session at LF Energy Embedded Summit 2023, Christopher Lloyd-Jones, the Chief Blueprints Officer at OpenUK and Head of Open Innovation at Avanade, presented groundbreaking blueprints for sustainable technology infrastructure (video follows below). The focus was on two critical areas: data centers and electric vehicle (EV) charging. The session shed light on how collaboration and open source principles can drive innovation to address pressing challenges in the technology industry.
OpenUK: Pioneering Openness and Sustainability
OpenUK, a not-for-profit organization, champions open technology, open source software, open hardware, and open data in the UK. Their vision extends globally, as they believe in the power of collaborative efforts to create a more sustainable digital world. Lloyd-Jones highlighted their close collaborations with organizations like Open Forum Europe and Open Invention Network, further emphasizing the importance of global cooperation in driving positive change.
The Power of Blueprints
Lloyd-Jones introduced the concept of blueprints, defining them as comprehensive guides for creating sustainable and standardized technology infrastructure based on open source principles. These blueprints serve as a roadmap for solving thorny problems and fostering community collaboration. They involve diverse groups of volunteers from the private and public sectors, ensuring a well-rounded perspective.
Patchwork Kilt: Sustainable Data Center Blueprint
The Patchwork Kilt blueprint addresses sustainability in data centers, a crucial issue given their massive electricity consumption worldwide. This blueprint takes into account both technical requirements and environmental impact. It weaves together best practices to create a comprehensive and holistic plan for sustainable data center operations. By involving various stakeholders, including governments and private partners, the blueprint aims to create a unified set of solutions to drive positive environmental outcomes.
Open Technology Electrical Vehicle Charging Blueprint
The second blueprint focuses on the challenges of electric vehicle (EV) charging infrastructure. Beyond just the technical aspects, the blueprint engages various stakeholders from governments to end-user service providers to ensure the development of robust and comprehensive solutions. By addressing policy and regulatory aspects, the blueprint aims to foster the growth of EV charging networks and overcome inefficiencies in the market.
Collaboration: Key to Success
Throughout the session, Lloyd-Jones emphasized the power of collaboration and inclusivity in creating successful blueprints. He invited the embedded software practitioner community to actively participate in reviewing and contributing to the blueprints. Their expertise in driving innovation in the technology industry is vital to the success of these initiatives. Lloyd-Jones also highlighted the ongoing revision process, which involves multiple workshops and events, inviting anyone interested to join and contribute.
OpenUK’s blueprints for sustainable data centers and EV charging infrastructure serve as a beacon of hope, addressing the challenges posed by technology’s rapid growth. By engaging diverse stakeholders, adopting open-source principles, and fostering global collaboration, we can collectively drive positive change and create a more sustainable digital world.
