Download

A Complete Guide to CNI Resilience Through Water Storage Systems - 2026 Edition

Water Storage Data Centre Whitepaper 2026

Discover the definitive 2026 guide to water storage systems for data centres operating as part of the UK’s Critical National Infrastructure (CNI).

This technical whitepaper covers regulatory compliance, system sizing, risk mitigation, and the latest best practice recommendations for cooling and fire suppression water storage. 

Developed by Tricel Water, this resource is designed for data centre operators, facilities managers, and M&E engineers seeking robust, futureproof water resilience strategies. 

data centre water storage

What You’ll Learn

Water Storage Requirements for Modern Data Centres

Understand how cooling demand, facility tier (Tier III vs Tier IV), and autonomy requirements influence total storage capacity. Learn typical ranges from 200 m³ to over 3,000 m³ depending on data centre size and resilience targets. 

UK Regulations & Compliance

Navigate the legal and technical standards governing water storage, including: 

- Water Industry Act 1991 
- Water Supply (Water Fittings) Regulations 1999 
- BS 8558:2015 
- HSE L8 for Legionella control 
- Fire suppression compliance via BS EN 12845 

Avoid regulatory penalties and ensure your infrastructure meets mandatory standards. 

Fire Suppression Storage Requirements

Learn how to size and configure dedicated fire reserves, including sprinkler system needs, redundancy, and insurance requirements. 

Retrofitting and New Build Solutions

Explore how modular GRP storage tanks support both new and existing data centre designs. Understand installation timelines, space constraints, structural load considerations, and integration with existing systems. 

Accurate Tank Sizing Calculations

Follow the step-by-step methodology for calculating cooling water consumption, fire suppression requirements, and buffer capacity. Build accurate storage models using real formulas, autonomy scenarios, and cooling technology variables.

Climate Change & Future Capacity Planning

See how rising temperatures, drought conditions, and supply restrictions are reshaping water resilience planning. Get guidance on 20% future-proofing buffers and long-term modelling.