Data Center Investment News — 06/12/2024
CyrusOne Plans 27MW Data Center in Milan, Italy
CyrusOne has announced plans for a new 27MW data center in Milan, marking its entry into Italy’s growing data center market. The project is part of a strategic expansion across Europe to meet increasing demands for data center capacity. Located in Lainate, Milan, the facility will feature state-of-the-art technologies and sustainability measures, aligning with CyrusOne’s commitment to reducing its environmental footprint.
“This is an exciting development for CyrusOne worldwide,” said Matt Pullen, EVP and managing director, Europe at CyrusOne. “Entering the Milan market is an important enabler for us to meet our hyperscale customers’ demand, offering capacity and choice across the continent. We have seen relatively low enterprise adoption of the cloud in this market to date, demonstrating there are long-term growth opportunities for us here.”
This data center is set to support Italy’s digital transformation and provide enhanced connectivity options for businesses across Europe. The development is expected to be completed in phases, with the first phase becoming operational by late 2025.
NTT Plans 290MW Data Center Campus in Johor, Malaysia
NTT has unveiled plans for a massive 290MW data center campus in Johor, Malaysia, as part of its aggressive expansion in the Asia-Pacific region.
“With the APAC region emerging as one of the fastest growing and most influential markets for IT and data centers, our strategic land acquisition and development in Malaysia underscores our commitment to further expansion in the region,” said Doug Adams, CEO and president, Global Data Centers, NTT Data. “Johor Bahru is an increasingly important cross-border economic zone due to its proximity to Singapore.”
The campus, expected to span multiple phases, will cater to hyperscale and enterprise clients, bolstering Malaysia’s position as a data center hub in Southeast Asia. Key features include energy-efficient design and renewable energy integration, ensuring sustainable operations. This development supports the increasing demand for cloud services and digital infrastructure in the region.
Yondr Launches First 20MW of Data Center Campus Outside Frankfurt, Germany
Yondr has energized the first 20MW of its planned data center campus near Frankfurt, Germany. This is part of a larger 80MW campus designed to support hyperscale cloud providers and enterprise clients.
“This data center has been built to provide exceptional resilience, while also delivering on our client’s goals for sustainability and operational efficiency. Achieving our first RFS milestone in Frankfurt adds to a busy year for Yondr, with more on the horizon,” said Peter Hill, VP of design & construction EMEA at Yondr.
The facility emphasizes sustainability with energy-efficient cooling systems and renewable energy integration. Frankfurt, being a key European data center hub, is pivotal for Yondr’s strategy to address the growing demand for scalable and secure digital infrastructure in Europe.
EdgeConneX Expands Jakarta Campus in Indonesia
EdgeConneX has acquired additional land to expand its Jakarta data center campus, reflecting Indonesia’s rapid digital growth. The expanded campus will accommodate growing demands from local and international clients, supporting cloud, gaming, and content delivery services.
“Jakarta has always bee“Jakarta has always been a critical hub for EdgeConneX, and our investment underscores our commitment to Indonesia’s digital transformation,” said Kelvin Fong, managing director of APAC at EdgeConneX. “Expanding our data center campus supports our customers and strengthens the local economy and community.”
GTN was established via a joint venture between Japan’s Mitsui and local IT distributor and integrator, PT Multipolar Technology, which is part of Indonesian conglomerate Lippo Group.
As a leader in edge and hyperscale data centers, EdgeConneX continues to prioritize localized solutions and sustainable growth in Southeast Asia’s burgeoning data center market.
Northern Data to Develop 120MW HPC Data Center in Georgia
Northern Data has announced plans to build a high-performance computing (HPC) data center in Georgia, USA, with a capacity of 120MW. The facility will focus on AI, machine learning, and blockchain applications.
Aroosh Thillainathan, founder and CEO, Northern Data Group, said: “At Northern Data Group, our data centers are the backbone of the AI and HPC solutions our customers are developing every day.
“The new site in Maysville will further expand the compute power and capacity Northern Data Group can offer to our customers, creating more space for innovation while supporting the development of reliable and environmentally sustainable AI and HPC infrastructure in the United States.”
Utilizing renewable energy, the project aligns with Northern Data’s sustainability goals. Georgia’s abundant renewable energy sources and favorable business climate make it an ideal location for the development. Expected to begin operations in phases, the data center will serve global clients seeking scalable and efficient HPC solutions.
New Company Plans Data Center Campuses Totaling 12GW in Alberta, Canada
A newly formed company has announced ambitious plans to develop data center campuses in Alberta, Canada, with a total projected capacity of 12GW. These facilities will cater to the increasing demand for data-intensive applications and cloud services while prioritizing sustainability through renewable energy sources.
The proposed site is along 128 Street E and 498 Avenue E outside High River in Foothills County, to the south of Calgary. Further details aren’t available online, but the development is described as a “large-scale facility.”
Little information is available about Beacon, but the company seems to be planning several large-scale sites across Alberta.
Alberta’s strategic location and energy resources make it a favorable choice for such large-scale projects, which are poised to significantly impact the regional economy and global data center market.
Raxio Appoints Robert Skjødt as CEO
Raxio Group, a leading provider of carrier-neutral data center solutions in Africa, has appointed Robert Skjodt as its new CEO. Skjodt, with decades of experience in the telecommunications and data center industry, will lead Raxio’s expansion efforts across the continent.
“Our goal is to accelerate Africa’s growth responsibly. By combining Raxio’s expertise in data center development with sustainable energy practices, we can provide essential infrastructure that not only meets the needs of today but also preserves resources for future generations. I’m excited to lead Raxio in expanding our reach and deepening our commitment to environmental stewardship,” said Skjødt.
Raxio has been pivotal in addressing Africa’s growing need for robust digital infrastructure, and Skjodt’s leadership is expected to bolster its strategic vision and operational efficiency.
DCI Launches Data Center in Adelaide, Australia
Data Center Infrastructure (DCI) has officially opened its latest facility in Adelaide, Australia. This data center is part of DCI’s efforts to enhance digital infrastructure across Australia and cater to growing demands for connectivity, cloud computing, and colocation services.
DCI president and chief development officer, Shane Ross, said: “The opening of ADL02 underscores our commitment to enhancing the reliability and security of South Australia’s digital infrastructure. This state-of-the-art facility will support the state’s economic growth and technological advancement through the provision of secure data housing for key industry players in South Australia.”
Featuring advanced cooling systems and energy-efficient technologies, the center is designed to meet sustainability targets while supporting enterprise and government clients.
Microsoft Completes Construction of Saudi Arabian Data Center Region
Microsoft has finalized the construction of its data center region in Saudi Arabia, reinforcing its commitment to the Middle East’s digital transformation. This facility will enable local businesses and government entities to leverage advanced cloud services while ensuring compliance with data residency regulations. Part of Microsoft’s broader global expansion, this data center region emphasizes security, scalability, and sustainability.
Turki Badhris, President of Microsoft Arabia, added: “Public and private sector organizations in Saudi Arabia have demonstrated a remarkable appetite to leverage the latest cutting-edge technologies such as AI to thrive in the new digital age and are already relying on Microsoft’s trusted cloud to accelerate their business growth and AI innovation.”
Microsoft’s cloud services are already being utilised by various Saudi organisations. The Ministry of Education hosts its Madrasati platform on Azure, managing remote learning activities for seven million students and teachers.
Meta to Invest $10 Billion in Louisiana AI Data Center
Meta has announced plans to invest $10 billion in a new AI-focused data center in Louisiana, USA. The facility will support Meta’s growing AI initiatives and advanced technologies, including machine learning and metaverse applications.
Entergy Louisiana President and CEO Phillip May said: “This partnership underscores Entergy Louisiana’s commitment to powering progress and driving innovation. We are not only delivering the energy needed today but also building the infrastructure that will support a brighter, more sustainable future for all of Louisiana.”
Meta has also pledged to contribute up to US$1 million annually to Entergy’s “The Power to Care” low-income ratepayer support programme, which Entergy Louisiana will match.
Designed to be environmentally sustainable, the project underscores Meta’s commitment to clean energy and technological innovation. Construction is set to begin in 2025, with significant economic benefits anticipated for the local community.
Vantage Data Centers Strengthens Financial Leadership Ahead of 2025 Growth Push
Vantage Data Centers has bolstered its financial leadership team as it prepares for a significant growth phase in 2025. The company, which specializes in developing hyperscale data centers, aims to expand its global footprint while enhancing operational efficiency. These leadership changes reflect Vantage’s commitment to meeting the increasing demand for scalable and sustainable data center solutions worldwide.
Sharif Metwalli, Vantage’s global CFO, said: “Christophe’s nearly 30 years of proven experience developing and executing growth strategies and navigating complex investment opportunities makes him an ideal fit to be our next CFO of North America.”
Filling Strauven’s former role, Rich Cosgray joins Vantage as the new Senior Vice President of Capital Markets. Cosgray has over 16 years of technology, media, and telecommunications (TMT) banking and finance experience to the position.
Cologix Plans $7 Billion Investment in Ohio Data Center Campus
Cologix has revealed a $7 billion investment to develop a state-of-the-art data center campus in Ohio, USA. This facility will focus on hyperscale and edge computing needs, integrating advanced cooling technologies and renewable energy solutions. Ohio’s central location and robust infrastructure make it a prime location for this venture, which is expected to drive economic growth and enhance digital connectivity in the region.
“The City of Johnstown is pleased Cologix, a leader in the data center industry, has made an investment in our community to support the technology needs of its partners,” said Johnstown Mayor Donald Barnard. “Cologix choosing Johnstown is confirmation that our updated planning policies are paying off. This is a catalyst project for positive momentum towards Johnstown’s bright future. We believe that Cologix will find Johnstown to be a wonderful new home.”
Earlier this year, Cologix completed the development of the region’s first colocation AI-ready data center, further solidifying its market position.