In the realm of data centers, Simon Harris, Director of Critical Infrastructure at BCS, advocates for the refurbishment of existing facilities, targeted electrical upgrades, and smarter cooling strategies as a more efficient and sustainable alternative to constructing new buildings.
As the data center industry transitions into a new era where AI is no longer just a trend but a fundamental aspect of digital transformation, the demand for increased capacity continues to surge. The European Union is expected to triple its data center capacity in the next five to seven years as part of the ‘AI Continent’ initiative, aiming to establish Europe as a global leader in AI infrastructure.
While new data center constructions are often in the spotlight, it is crucial to recognize the significance of legacy facilities in meeting the escalating demand for AI-ready capacity. With many older data centers struggling to keep up with modern computing requirements, options such as refurbishment, decommissioning, and rebuilding must be considered to bridge the gap between ambition and delivery. Upgrading existing facilities can offer various benefits, including under-utilized power availability, strategic location advantages, and reduced carbon emissions compared to new constructions.
In conclusion, a hybrid approach that incorporates both new builds and upgraded legacy data centers is essential in achieving AI-ready capacity goals. By embracing innovative solutions such as phased upgrades, liquid cooling retrofits, and enhanced containment systems, the industry can adapt to the evolving demands of AI workloads while maintaining sustainability and cost-effectiveness.
