Keysource Wins Bronze at The Consultancy Awards for ESG Impact

Keysource Wins Bronze at The Consultancy Awards for ESG Impact

We’re proud to share that Keysource has been awarded Bronze in the ESG Impact category at this year’s Consultancy Awards. This recognition highlights not only the ambition and innovation behind one of our most complex projects to date, but also our commitment to driving real, measurable ESG outcomes across the data centre sector.

Championing ESG from the Ground Up

The award-winning initiative focused on the delivery of a new 30,000 sq ft data centre in Manchester (MCR2) for Datum. This project wasn’t just about building a high-performance data centre, it was about embedding sustainability and social value at every stage of the process.

Keysource was appointed as the lead consultant, managing the full lifecycle of the project from early-stage advisory and planning to design and construction. Working alongside public and private stakeholders, we ensured the facility aligned with the regeneration goals of the city while setting new standards for responsible data centre development.

Real ESG Impact, Not Just Green Labels

What set this project apart was the depth of ESG integration. Every design decision – from sourcing UK-manufactured equipment to measuring the travel-related carbon impact of on-site workers, and it was guided by sustainability principles.

Environmental innovation included:

• A future-proof connection to Manchester’s district heat network, enabling surplus heat from the data centre to support local energy needs.
• A rooftop solar PV system producing 83,000 kWh of clean energy annually.
• A Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) target of 1.2, reinforcing the site’s energy efficiency.

Social impact was equally central. We aligned with local regeneration programmes to help create jobs and infrastructure in the area, while ensuring worker safety and inclusivity throughout the project.

On the governance front, we maintained open, transparent reporting across all stakeholders, ensuring alignment with Datum’s long-term ESG strategy and reinforcing the credibility of our work.

Why This Matters

Far too often, ESG efforts in our industry are reactive, an afterthought, or a box-ticking exercise. This project proved what’s possible when sustainability is not just a consideration but a core driver from day one.

The fact that the MCR2 facility has attracted client interest even before launch is testament to the demand for this kind of forward-thinking approach.

As the only third-party consultant directly involved across every stage of the project, we’re proud to have delivered a seamless, joined-up strategy that balanced cost, speed, and ESG value. And we’re even prouder that this effort has now been recognised by our industry peers and The Consultancy Awards.

Looking Ahead

The success of MCR2 has laid the foundation for long-term integration with the local community and infrastructure. Our work with Datum continues, and we remain committed to helping clients across the sector turn ESG ambition into lasting, meaningful outcomes.