We’re always working behind the scenes to make our network smarter, greener, and more efficient. As part of our sustainability and energy optimisation efforts, we’re trialling a change to how we manage temperatures at a small number of our colocation sites.

What’s happening?
We’re running a pilot to increase the temperature set point of air conditioning systems from 22 C to 30°C at four selected sites. This is not the room temperature, but the cooling system’s set point - actual room temperatures are expected to remain within the range of 15°C to 35°C specified in our product documentation. This pilot is part of a broader initiative to ensure Chorus meets its sustainability aspirations.  

Why are we doing this now?
With the removal of aging existing technologies (copper services) and in line with international telecommunication standards ETSI EN-300 019-1-3 and TIA-569-D, Chorus is reviewing its transmission room operating temperatures. The outcomes of this pilot will inform our next steps. Ultimately, some minor changes in these settings have the potential to reduce electricity usage and emissions by up to 20% annually, which is significant given that electricity accounts for around 90% of Chorus’ emissions.

Our Approach

• Lab-tested: We’ve already tested this approach in our non-production lab environment, where we observed no impact on equipment performance.
• Improved stability: The trial also showed more stable temperature and humidity levels - a positive outcome for electronic equipment.
• Data-driven decision-making: This pilot will help us gather real-world data to inform whether a permanent change is appropriate, and if so, what the optimal temperature settings should be, aligning with international standards (ETSI EN-300 019-1-3 and TIA-569-D)

Anticipated Temperature Conditions 
Within the pilot sites we anticipate the temperature conditions to remain within the currently specified temperature range of 15°C – 35°C. High temperature alarm thresholds will be adjusted at the sites with activation occurring at 33°C (initial high) and 36°C (urgent high). During the pilot should temperatures exceed these ranges immediate action will be taken.

Pilot sites
We’re starting with four targeted locations:

• TNA – Takapuna
• FOR – Forrest Hill
• DRF – Darfield
• MDX – Middleton

Timeline
We’re giving you 20 days’ notice, including a 10-day window to raise any concerns:

• Notice date: 9 July 2025
• Response deadline: 23 July 2025
• Pilot begins: 6 Aug 2025 

The pilot will run for six weeks.

What this means for you
No action is required unless you anticipate an impact on your equipment or services. If you do, please contact us before 23 July 2025.

This is a pilot only - no permanent changes will be made without further analysis and confirmation. If a permanent change is proposed in the future, it will include updates to product documentation where necessary.

Thank you for partnering with us as we explore ways to build a more sustainable and efficient network. If you have any concerns or questions, please reach out to your Chorus Channel Partner team.