Insight Type: News

Why we’ve been shortlisted for two Data Centre Review Excellence Awards

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The awards

We are excited to have been shortlisted in two categories in this year’s Data Centre Review Excellence Awards. These awards celebrate the companies and individuals driving innovation, sustainability, and excellence within the data centre industry – and we are honoured to be recognised for our efforts.

Both awards centre around our soon-to-be-completed MCR2 data centre construction in Wythenshawe, a construction that forms part of the area’s £500m regeneration project, including new homes, cultural spaces, and sustainable commercial facilities.

The categories

Category #1: Sustainable Project of the Year

Our heat reuse initiative at MCR2 has earned us a spot in this category. Data centres are often criticised for generating large amounts of heat, but we have transformed this challenge into an opportunity.

Located just 20 metres from a planned housing development of 700–1,500 dwellings, MCR2 has been built with heat reuse capability integrated into its design. This means that excess heat produced by the data centre – and the colocated organisations within it – can be recycled to warm these new homes through a local heat network. Importantly, it demonstrates how data centre infrastructure can align with long-term sustainability goals and benefit the surrounding communities. By partnering with Manchester City Council and Muse (our regeneration partner), we’ve been able to embed transformational, forward-thinking design into the heart of this development.

What makes this project unique?

  • Proactive design: integrating heat reuse into the initial construction avoids the immense complexity and cost of retrofitting later.
  • Community impact: demonstrating that essential infrastructure can support Wythenshawe’s residents with potential sustainable heat solutions.
  • Future-focused: showing how sustainability should be at the core of such construction projects.

Category #2: Data Centre Design Project of the Year

MCR2 has also been nominated for its cutting-edge design, which balances sustainability, operational efficiency, and reliability to meet the growing demand for high-quality data centre facilities in Manchester.

What sets MCR2 apart?

  • Environmental responsibility: from an embodied carbon assessment conducted at the design stage onwards, every decision has been made with a view to reducing environmental impact.
  • Flood management: an attenuation tank mitigates against the potential impact of major rainfall events, helping protect the local area and reducing pressure on nearby wastewater systems.
  • Renewable energy-focused: the facility is powered entirely by zero carbon 100% renewable electricity. Solar PV panels have been installed on the roof, while emergency generators are configured to run exclusively on renewable HVO biofuels.
  • Heat reuse capability: by building heat reuse capabilities into the infrastructure, MCR2 ensures it is able to support a future local heat network – highlighting its commitment to long-term sustainable solutions.

Looking forward

We are proud to push the boundaries of what a data centre can achieve by aligning technological advancements with environmental and community goals. The awards ceremony will take place on 14 May 2025 at the Oxo Tower, London, and we are honoured to stand among the other nominees shaping the future of our sector.

Of course, none of this would be possible without the support of our partners for this project: Keysource (our trusted design and build partner), Manchester City Council, and Muse (our regeneration partner).

If you’d like to learn more about our shortlisted projects or our focus on the provision sustainable data centre services, talk to us today.

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Reflections from Data Centre World (DCW) 2025

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Highlights

Last week, members of our team attended Data Centre World (DCW). The event provided a great chance to take part in sessions and insightful discussions, connect with clients and partners, catch up with suppliers involved in our soon-to-be-completed MCR2 data centre construction, and talk to prospective clients exploring off-premise data centre solutions.

How AI and sustainability are shaping data centre demand

Alongside connecting with the data centre community, the event surfaced key themes and trends that align with our priorities and values. A few topics particularly stood out for us during DCW, including data centre sustainability, and the general industry focus on AI and HPC and the subsequent impact on the requirement for resilient and scalable data centre capacity.

Sustainability is pivotal for the future of data centres, and it’s at the core of our business. As we continue constructing our new data centre in Manchester (MCR2), we’re proud to showcase how sustainable design and practices are ingrained in our DNA.

With rising energy demands from sectors like AI and HPC, balancing operational efficiency with environmental responsibility is more crucial than ever. At DCW, there was widespread recognition of the need for sustainable data centre solutions, and we are excited to be at the forefront of addressing this challenge.

Key takeaways from DCW

Through conversations, sessions, and feedback at the event, several key takeaways emerged about the demands and challenges faced by enterprises and service providers today. Here are the top trends we observed:

1. Demand for resilient and sustainable UK data centres

Enterprises and service providers are facing mounting pressure to access secure, high-quality, and sustainable data centre facilities. To meet this demand, we are constructing MCR2 in Manchester and are currently planning FRN2 at our Farnborough site.

Another recurring theme was how enterprises managing in-house data centres are increasingly turning to colocation or cloud solutions. This shift is often motivated by the need to meet ESG targets, reduce operating costs, and avoid costly, resource-intensive upgrades to outdated mechanical and electrical systems.

2. Data residency and sovereignty

Keeping control over data through data residency within the UK/EU remains a priority for many enterprises, driven in part by the uncertain posture of the US government and growing concerns over data sovereignty.

3. Edge computing growth

The rise of edge computing is driving demand for distributed data, which in turn requires increased data centre capacity to ensure these systems are resilient, local, and capable of handling high-demand workloads.

4. Backup for hybrid cloud services

There’s significant growth in third-party data backup services, particularly those providing localised control over hyperscaler cloud services like Microsoft 365 backup as a service (BaaS), workplace recovery solutions, and cloud disaster recovery.

Looking forward

We left DCW inspired by the opportunities ahead. For businesses seeking immediate capacity, our white space availability in two highly resilient and sustainable locations provides a ready-to-go solution. Whether you’re looking to expand your edge computing capabilities, secure backup options, or reduce dependency on in-house data centres, we offer the resilience, sustainability, and agility you need to grow.

DCW reaffirmed that we’re on the right path. By addressing the evolving demands of the market – through sustainability, enterprise-focused solutions, and forward-thinking technology – we’re perfectly positioned to continue leading the way. Challenges like supply chain disruption further emphasise why flexibility and agility are critical for modern enterprises. We’re confident in our ability to meet these demands, offering tailored solutions that align with the goals and evolving needs of enterprise clients.

Whether you’re a service provider or an organisation exploring data centre options, we’re ready to help you succeed. Learn more about how we can support your data centre needs by getting in touch with us today.

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How AI is revolutionising data centres - and the challenges ahead 

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Data centres for AI

There has been much in the news recently about how artificial intelligence (AI) is being integrated into many different industries and is reshaping the way we live and work. Data centres have a crucial role to play in powering AI technologies, and this has triggered an unprecedented demand for data centre capacity. But with this growth come some big challenges, especially when it comes to power consumption and scalability.

AI and the growing demand for data centres

The increasing adoption of AI globally is driving demand for the infrastructure required to power this technology, particularly the demand for high-performance computing (HPC) resources.

This is particularly important for the UK, which is currently ranked as the fourth-largest AI market in the world (according to the Social Market Foundation – a cross-party think-tank). Prime Minister Keir Starmer has recently pledged to fully support the growth of AI, adopting every recommendation in the ‘AI Opportunities Action Plan’ devised by Matt Clifford, his AI advisor.

According to the Prime Minister, the UK cannot afford to fall behind, saying:

“We stand at a crossroads. Countries that embrace the possibility of the Artificial Intelligence (AI) revolution will reap the benefits. Those that shy away, or join in reluctantly, will lag behind.”

AI technology requires vast computational power and data processing capabilities which, in turn, is increasing energy demand. According to the International Energy Agency, global data centre electricity consumption in 2022 accounted for around 1% to 1.3% of global final electricity demand. In all likelihood this is going to increase in light of the surge in the uptake of AI technologies, which will put more stress on power grids.

Sustaining the UK's position as an AI leader

According to the Social Market Foundation, energy prices and planning challenges could threaten the UK’s position as a world leader in AI, essentially because energy costs are holding back data centre construction ambitions.

Challenge 1: Power constraints and the future of expansion

The surge in energy usage creates challenges for scaling data centres, particularly in areas where the power grid is already stretched to its limits. Many established data centre hubs are in heavily populated regions (e.g. London) and competing demands on energy infrastructure are restricting data centre growth. Some major markets have even imposed restrictions on new data centre developments simply because the grid can’t cope. This, combined with the high prices of industrial electricity in the UK, means that the UK risks losing its most promising startups, scaleups, and researchers to countries that can offer better resources unless action is taken.

Challenge 2: Planning for new data centres

To maintain the UK’s position as a global AI leader, data centre capacity will need to be expanded in order for the UK to remain competitive. And this growth needs to be achieved sustainably. We know from experience of constructing our own data centre facilities that securing planning permission for data centres can be challenging, but that it is more than achievable so long as consideration is given to all the important factors, not least environmental impact, setting and achieving sustainability targets, ensuring a resilient power supply (prioritising renewable energy), selecting locations with robust connectivity, and gaining the support of the local community.

The path forward

We recognised the growing demand for sustainable, enterprise grade data centre infrastructure within Manchester’s thriving tech hub, so we embarked on the development of MCR2, an enterprise grade and sustainable data centre located in Wythenshawe as part of the area’s regeneration project. MCR2 will be going live in Q2 2025 and will boost the region’s capacity to drive economic innovation and growth. Meanwhile, planning permission has been granted for FRN2, a brand new data centre adjacent to our flagship Farnborough facility on the government-grade Cody Technology Park.

Are you looking to expand your data centre footprint to support your growing business? We offer two state-of-the-art data centre facilities – London Edge and Manchester – designed to meet your evolving needs. Get in touch with a member of our team today to discuss your requirements and find the perfect solution for your business.

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Interview: James Hagan - Datum’s Compliance & Sustainability Lead

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Why the new role?

Compliance and sustainability have never been more important in the data centre industry. With increasing regulation and a global push towards more sustainable practices, finding the right balance is a challenge that requires dedication and focus. At the forefront of this effort at Datum is James Hagan, who recently transitioned into the role of Compliance & Sustainability Lead.

We caught up with James to learn more about his background, his new role, and the impact he hopes to make at Datum.

From engineering to compliance expert

When James joined Datum in July 2022 as an Engineer & Compliance Officer, he immediately set out to learn as much as he could about the data centre industry with a view to transitioning to compliance and sustainability at a later stage. Reflecting on his experience, James said:

“The goal was clear – immerse myself in the data centre world, absorb every detail, and gain invaluable insight into its operations and the role of ISO standards.”

Fast forward to today, and that experience has paved the way for James to take on the focused role, as planned.

Why a dedicated compliance and sustainability role?

With regulation becoming more prominent in the data centre sector, we recognised the importance of having a dedicated expert to guide our compliance and sustainability initiatives.

“Compliance and sustainability are an ever-growing factor in the data centre world with more and more regulation coming in,” explains James.

“Datum always wants to be on the front foot when it comes to compliance and sustainability to ensure that we are operating efficiently and with the best practices. Having a dedicated role not only ensures that we meet these standards but also reflects our commitment to our beliefs and values.”

A day in the life of our Compliance & Sustainability Lead

Managing ISO accreditations and audits

One of James’s primary responsibilities is managing Datum’s ISO accreditations and annual audits. From policy management and staff training to asset management and maintaining extensive logs, this role requires meticulous attention to detail.

Supporting clients with their sustainability initiatives

Sustainability isn’t limited to the confines of our data centres. Helping clients meet their own sustainability needs is a key part of the role. With initiatives like the Sustainable Finance Disclosure Regulation (SFDR), James assists by completing annual questionnaires, providing evidence, and helping clients showcase their commitments.

Beyond these structured frameworks, James is always on hand to address any queries from clients, whether it’s providing certification, sustainability documentation, or other supporting materials. His consistent involvement ensures clients feel supported every step of the way.

Managing our GRESB submissions

Similarly, for GRESB (Global Real Estate Sustainability Benchmark) – an important benchmark for sustainability – James tracks our ESG metrics (including energy consumption, greenhouse gas emissions, water management, waste management, building certifications, diversity and inclusion, and corporate governance), and compiles data and evidence for our annual assessment and rating.

Driving impact at Datum

When asked about the impact he hopes to achieve, James said:

“I hope I can bring a consistent and familiar feel to Datum and its clients when it comes to compliance and sustainability, an assurance that you know the goals and needs will be achieved.”

With a growing data centre sector and increasing focus on climate change, his role goes beyond box-ticking exercises:

“The wider issues facing all of us – like climate change – are an ever-looming problem. By working in compliance and sustainability, we can help ensure we’re acting in the right way and delivering on what we believe in,” James adds.

Why sustainability matters in the data centre sector

Data centres are at the heart of our tech-driven world, forming the backbone of everything from cloud computing to financial services. But as the sector grows, so does its environmental impact:

“The data centre sector is growing rapidly,” James reflects.

“To be able to work in an emerging field and help steer it towards a more sustainable future is a really interesting proposition – and one that’s sure to throw up more than a few challenges!”

What drives James

When we asked James about his favourite aspect of the role, his enthusiasm was clear:

“Working in a rapidly growing sector and helping people understand what we do and how we plan to do it sustainably.”

And when he’s not managing compliance or responding to sustainability queries?

“Spending time with my wife, daughter, and dog… whilst the football is on the TV, of course,” he says with a smile.

Looking ahead

James Hagan’s dedication to compliance and sustainability reflects Datum’s broader commitment to operating responsibly and transparently. James will play a pivotal role in ensuring Datum not only meets but exceeds expectations in these critical areas.

This is the perfect time to get in touch to learn more about how we can support your data centre needs sustainably. Our brand-new MCR2 data centre in Manchester is set to go live in Q2 2025, offering 1,200 racks across multiple data halls. And planning permission is in place for our upcoming FRN2 facility in Farnborough, adjacent to our flagship FRN1 facility, with an expected launch at the end of 2026. Talk to us to find out more.

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MCR2’s attenuation tank – hidden sustainable infrastructure

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An invisible part of our sustainability planning

When you imagine building a world-class data centre like MCR2, cutting-edge technology, sleek designs, and advanced systems might come to mind. But there’s more to our story than meets the eye – literally. Hidden below the surface is a feature that plays a key role in sustainability and site resilience during extreme weather challenges. Meet our attenuation tank, a crucial (yet invisible) part of sustainable infrastructure planning.

What is an attenuation tank?

Attenuation tanks are large subterranean storage systems designed to manage and control stormwater runoff. Their primary role is to collect excess rainwater during heavy downpours or extreme flooding events, allowing it to be stored temporarily. Rather than releasing this water directly into local drainage systems, which can quickly become overwhelmed, the tank releases it at a much slower, controlled rate.

This not only reduces the risk of localised flooding but also minimises the strain on drainage exit points and downstream systems. Essentially, it’s a safeguard against extreme weather impacts, protecting infrastructure, natural habitats, and local communities.

Why did we install an attenuation tank at MCR2?

Regulatory compliance played a significant role here. The local authority requires all new builds to reduce stormwater flow into drainage systems to levels calculated below a specific threshold. This threshold is based on what would happen during the amount of rainfall expected under a ‘1 in 100 years’ flooding event, coupled with an additional 40% margin to account for future challenges such as climate change.

Now, if you’re thinking that sounds like a staggering amount of water, then you’re absolutely right. To put it into perspective, our MCR2 attenuation tank has a capacity of approximately 900 cubic metres – the equivalent of 900,000 litres of water (or around two and a half 25m swimming pools worth of water) stored below our site.

Building an attenuation tank of this size required significant investment and planning from the very start of the project.

What do we hope to achieve?

1. Protect our site

Extreme weather events are becoming more frequent, and flooding is a growing concern across many regions. By deploying an attenuation system, we’re ensuring our MCR2 data centre has robust flood protection in place. This helps safeguard critical infrastructure and ensures the uninterrupted operation of our facility.

2. Support the local community

When unmanaged stormwater overwhelms drainage systems, it poses risks far beyond the initial build site. Downstream neighbourhoods and natural water bodies bear the brunt, with increased flooding and erosion damage. Our attenuation tank protects not only our site but also reduces these risks for surrounding areas.

3. Comply with planning authority regulations

The planning authority’s rules around stormwater management aim to create safer, more sustainable developments across the board. By meeting these standards, we demonstrate our commitment to responsible construction practices and our alignment with long-term environmental goals.

4. Promote sustainability

Sustainability is at the core of our MCR2 data centre construction. Deploying features like attenuation tanks illustrates how we’re working to reduce the environmental impact of our operations, even during extreme scenarios.

It’s easy to overlook something that lies underground, away from sight – but attenuation tanks are a necessary part of responsible, sustainable development, especially in regions prone to heavy rainfall and flooding.

For us, the installation of such an expansive tank was demanding in terms of planning, cost, and implementation. But as we look forward to the completion of MCR2, we’re confident that investments like these – though largely unseen – play a vital role in protecting our operations, benefiting the local environment, and supporting the community.

If you have any questions about our sustainability practices at MCR2, feel free to get in touch with our team.

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Embodied carbon: measuring the emissions at the construction stage of MCR2

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Why embodied carbon?

Around one third of a building’s total emissions are generated during the upfront construction phase, making the measurement and understanding of embodied carbon essential for responsible and sustainable construction practices.

What is embodied carbon?

The whole life cycle emissions of a building consist of operational and embodied carbon emissions. Operational emissions are the emissions associated with the ongoing use of a building (e.g. energy use), whilst embodied carbon emissions are those associated with the construction, maintenance and demolition of buildings.

Embodied carbon may include emissions associated with:

  • raw material extraction (e.g. mining, logging);
  • manufacturing and processing of materials (e.g. steel production, cement mixing);
  • transportation of materials to the construction site;
  • on-site construction activities (e.g. use of machinery, energy consumption);
  • end-of-life disposal or recycling of materials.

Why embodied carbon needs to be measured

  • Immediate impact: embodied carbon emissions are released upfront, which can sometimes be long before a building becomes operational. Unlike operational emissions, which can be reduced over time, embodied carbon cannot be ‘undone.
  • Futureproofing: with tightening carbon regulations and policies, understanding embodied carbon at the construction phase is gaining more importance.
  • Sustainability goals: many organisations and governments aim to achieve net-zero carbon targets, and embodied carbon may be part of net zero commitments.

How embodied carbon is calculated

The calculation of embodied carbon for a construction project requires looking at the different stages of a material’s lifecycle.

Scope definition

The first step is defining the boundaries of the calculation. Embodied carbon is typically categorised into four lifecycle stages:

Four lifecycle stages of embodied carbon

Most embodied carbon calculations focus on the A1–A5 stages of product and construction, as these contribute to upfront emissions. However, a full lifecycle assessment (LCA) would also include stages B and C (use and end-of-life) for a more comprehensive analysis.

Material selection

The materials used in the project form the basis of embodied carbon calculations, and every building material has an associated carbon cost. For instance, concrete and steel are highly carbon-intensive due to energy-heavy manufacturing processes. Wood, on the other hand (when sustainably sourced) often has a much lower carbon footprint and can even act as a carbon store.

Gathering data

Two key datasets are used to calculate emissions for each material:

  • Emission factors: these are standardised values that indicate the greenhouse gas emissions for a specific material or activity. For example, the emissions per tonne of concrete produced.
  • Quantities of materials: the exact volume, weight, or area of the materials used in the project.

This data can typically be sourced from Environmental Product Declarations (EPDs), which are standardised documents provided by manufacturers.

Once the calculations for each material and stage are complete, the data is aggregated to provide a total embodied carbon figure for the entire project. This is often expressed in kilograms or tonnes of CO₂ equivalent (tCO₂e).

Datum’s embodied carbon assessment for MCR2

Our assessment occurred at the concept design stage and covers the base build of the data centre and focused on the environmental impact of the construction phases and life cycle of MCR2. It was conducted in alignment with BS EN 15978:2011 standards.

Some key figures for MCR2

The embodied carbon study found that 42% of emissions are from the superstructure, 18% from building services, and 18% from internal finishes. The superstructure contributes the majority of emissions due to the structural steel frame.

Three main components – steel, concrete and services (including cooling equipment) – contribute just 23.7% of the total building mass, but make up 69.3% of total embodied carbon of the building.

The suspended ceiling had a very high carbon intensity. Aluminum was the most carbon intense material. Other materials and components that had a higher carbon impact were the windows and doors, insulation, paint, carpet and flooring.

The services associated with the project are also carbon intense, mainly due to the cooling equipment required for data centres.

Our carbon management strategy

We continue to embed sustainability into the core of our operations and, as part of our carbon management strategy, our team will explore whether the design of future buildouts can be further optimised to reduce the carbon impact of the construction phase.

We have 24/7 and 365 energy management systems in place to monitor and optimise our energy usage and PUE, and run a wide variety of initiatives to manage our ongoing carbon impact. Some examples include:

  • integrating solar photovoltaic (PV) panels to generate clean energy, and heat reuse capability for nearby housing into the design at our Manchester (MCR) site;
  • reducing water usage by 70% by switching from water based cooling (adiabatic) to free cooling technology at our Farnborough (FRN) site.

Securing capacity in MCR2

MCR2 is set to open its doors in Q2 2025, offering a state-of-the-art solution for hosting IT infrastructure and workloads off premise. If you’re planning to migrate your systems, now is the perfect time to reserve your footprint. Get in touch to discuss your requirements.

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Phil Nicholson joins Datum to drive partnership growth

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Datum's new Partner Director

We’re pleased to welcome Phil Nicholson as Datum’s new Partner Director. Phil will be spearheading our efforts to develop new channels and foster vibrant communities within our partner network. With a strong background in cloud-managed services and consulting, Phil has worked extensively with large enterprises, delivering transformative outcomes for their stakeholders.

We caught up with him to ask him some poignant questions. Over to you, Phil …

A career driving innovation in technology sales

I’ve been fortunate to spend my entire career in the technology industry, navigating a range of dynamic and rewarding roles. My early days were shaped by working with US software giants such as Microsoft, from there I ventured into building Attenda, which grew to become one of the UK’s leading IT managed services companies. More recently, I have been privileged to contribute to global advisory and consulting businesses, holding key roles at Gartner and Cognizant. Each experience has deepened my expertise and strengthened my passion for driving innovation in technology.

A notable project in my career

One project I am particularly proud of from my time at Attenda was the development and leadership of client engagement and delivery teams. Over the course of more than 10 years, I worked closely with these teams to achieve exceptional outcomes in client loyalty and satisfaction. By fostering strong relationships, implementing effective strategies, and maintaining a commitment to excellence, we consistently elevated the client experience. This achievement was not only a testament to the team’s dedication but also to the robust frameworks we built to ensure long-lasting success with our clients.

Why the move to Datum?

What excites me most about joining Datum is the incredible opportunity to contribute to the growth and success of a company I’ve admired for over a decade. Having observed Datum’s evolution over the past 12 years into a premium enterprise-grade data centre provider with multiple locations and an unrivalled client base, I’m thrilled to now be part of the team. Datum’s success has been built on strong relationships with its channel partners, consultancies, and commercial property advisors, and the chance to advance these partnerships further is truly motivating. With new capacity being introduced in Farnborough and Manchester, I’m eager to help accelerate growth in these channels and continue building Datum’s reputation as a trusted partner in the industry.

Top priorities for my first 100 days at Datum

My top priorities are to rapidly gain a deep understanding of the business, its capabilities, and its client and partner ecosystem. I also plan to meet as many clients and partners as possible to foster strong relationships and ensure alignment with their goals. With Datum’s ambitious targets for 2025, it’s critical to hit the ground running – starting early will position us for success and enable us to achieve our objectives.

Sustaining motivation – passions and hobbies outside work

Outside of work, my passions are centred around seasonal outdoor activities that keep me inspired and energised. During winter, you’ll find me on the ski slopes in France, fully immersed in the thrill of the mountains. When summer arrives, I enjoy road cycling or hiking in both the UK and France. To add to the mix, I also indulge in a bit of waterskiing whenever I can – I’m always drawn to anything that combines the outdoors with an active lifestyle.

We’re excited to welcome Phil to our growing team. His wealth of experience and strategic insights make him an invaluable addition as we continue to expand and strengthen our partnership network – Datum Connect – a vital extension of our services. By complementing and enhancing our core colocation offerings, our partners enable us to remain singularly focused on delivering exceptional colocation solutions. Being part of the Datum ecosystem opens the door to shared opportunities, collaborative marketing efforts, and combined service offerings. Some of our partners provide complementary solutions that help clients achieve their business objectives, while others benefit from referring or reselling our expert, accredited colocation services. Interested in joining our network? Get in touch to explore the possibilities.

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'Lunch with a view': behind the scenes at Datum’s MCR2 project

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A view of our progress

Hosted at our Manchester office, our first ‘lunch with a view’ event offered an exclusive preview of MCR2, our cutting-edge data centre facility in the advanced stages of construction. Attendees included not only some of our valued current clients but also prospective new ones. The discussions were engaging and insightful, and we were pleased to receive positive feedback on the project’s progress and vision.

In a relaxed and informal atmosphere, attendees gathered in the 6th-floor boardroom, which served as a viewing gallery of the project site – a vantage point providing a first-hand glimpse into the scale and ambition of the MCR2 project as it takes shape.

Conversations that mattered

The event wasn’t just about the view (perhaps just as well considering the less than ideal weather conditions) – it was about meaningful conversation. Hosting the lunch were Datum’s COO, Matt Edgely, and Seb Graham, Group Head of Sales, who facilitated discussions and fielded questions throughout.

MCR2’s environmental credentials

As well as MCR2’s anticipated capacity and impressive resilience standards (reassuring for our clients/potential clients who depend on robust and efficient data centre solutions), key talking points included Datum’s sustainability initiatives, which underscore all aspects of the MCR2 construction process. Of particular relevance here were the use of PV panels and the incorporated heat reuse capability, which will harness waste heat for conditioning, reuse and delivery to local projects in the Wythenshawe area of Manchester.

AI and data centres

Another key topic of discussion was AI in the data centre space. While AI promises remarkable enhancements in efficiency, scalability, and operational accuracy, our conversations showed that its current impact on data centre operations is nuanced. AI systems, particularly those implementing advanced machine learning or deep learning models, are exceptionally resource intensive, and rely heavily on GPU to handle massive amounts of data at high speeds. This reliance makes AI hardware and operations costly to deploy and sustain, with substantial power requirements adding to the total expenditure. We are seeing that the enterprise market has so far seen minimal immediate upheaval in terms of power capacity requirements or hardware usage in relation to AI, and that the up to 30kW per cabinet we provide is more than enough to accommodate the power demands of our clients, even those carrying out early-stage AI experimentation. As innovation in AI hardware continues, its adoption is likely to proliferate and, like all new technologies, it will progressively become more energy-efficient and cost-effective.

Building anticipation

Datum’s ‘lunch with a view’ acted as a prelude to full white space tours, which are set to take place closer to MCR2’s official opening at the end of Q1 2025.

Stay tuned for more updates as we get closer to the unveiling of MCR2, and to ensure you don’t miss future events and insights into Datum projects. Or contact us directly for more information.

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How the 2024 budget will impact the data centre sector

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The impact of the budget

The recent UK budget introduced a series of financial initiatives and policies aimed at propelling the UK towards a more innovative, efficient, and sustainable future. Technology is a pivotal driver of economic growth, so understanding the nuances of the budget and its implications is essential for strategic planning and resource management.

Key budget provisions affecting data centres

Investment in green technology

One of the central themes of the 2024 budget is sustainability, with significant investments directed towards green technology in line with the UK’s commitment to achieving net zero emissions. There is now an urgent call for data centres to adopt energy-efficient practices, so the government has unveiled incentives for data centres that adopt energy-efficient technologies in a drive to reduce carbon footprints.


What we’re doing

  • We have implemented an energy-efficient cooling system across our sites that reduces power and water consumption (the latter by 70%).
  • Our backup generators now operate on biofuel, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and enabling a cleaner energy profile.
  • All our data centres are powered entirely by electricity from renewable sources.
  • Our newest data centre – MCR2 in Manchester (currently under construction) – is equipped with photovoltaic (PV) panels to harness solar energy. Furthermore, heat re-use capabilities have been designed into the build, allowing us to repurpose excess heat for conditioning, reuse and delivery to local projects in the Wythenshawe area of Manchester.

Enhanced cybersecurity measures

The budget emphasises strengthening the UK’s cyber resilience, with additional funding earmarked for cybersecurity initiatives protecting national digital assets. Data centres, as critical components of digital infrastructure, will need to align with these enhanced measures.


What we’re doing

  • Our sites are protected by 24/7 on-site security personnel, comprehensive CCTV coverage, robust multi-level access controls, biometric verification, cutting-edge intruder detection and alarm systems, and stringent key management protocols. Our sites are designed to support the needs of highly regulated industries where security is paramount – our Manchester site features a Security and Operations Control Centre (SOC) and an on-site police-linked alarm receiving centre, and our Farnborough site is located on the ultra-secure, government-grade Cody Technology Park.

Digital infrastructure development

The 2024 budget outlines a strong commitment to upgrading the nation’s digital infrastructure, including faster broadband and enhanced connectivity solutions for better data transfer and operations. Organisations should evaluate how improved infrastructure can support their data centre’s capacity and performance upgrades, potentially opening up opportunities for expansion and improved service delivery.


What we’re doing

Our data centres provided the resilience, security and platform for organisations to complete their digital transformation. As such, we are continuing to expand our capacities and ensure low-latency connectivity to facilitate the integration of emerging technologies by our clients.

Skills and training

Recognising the skills gap in the IT sector, the UK 2024 budget includes programmes aimed at upskilling workers in technology and data management to meet the demands of a digital economy. With an emphasis on developing digital skills, data centres will benefit from a larger pool of skilled professionals thanks to partnerships with educational institutions and government-led training initiatives.


What we’re doing

Our growing company is focused on developing talent from within to ensure a robust and future-ready workforce. By investing in continuous professional development, we are not only equipping our staff with the necessary skills to excel in their roles, but also fostering a culture of learning and growth that they carry forward throughout their careers.

Funding for R&D and innovation

One of the standout elements of this year’s budget is the substantial increase in funding for research and development. The government is keen to position the UK as a leader in technological innovation, with significant investments channelled towards encouraging advancements in data processing and cloud technologies.


What we’re doing

Data centres like ours are integral to the R&D landscape, providing the infrastructure necessary for current and future large-scale processing and storage, and driving technological innovation.

Public service transformation through digitalisation

The budget also places a strong emphasis on transforming public services through digitalisation. By integrating advanced data management systems, the aim is to enhance efficiency and service delivery across various public sectors.

With the push for digitalisation, data centres are likely to experience a surge in demand from public service providers seeking to upgrade their systems and infrastructure, and this, in turn, will create a greater demand for the stringent security provided by data centres in a bid to safeguard public data.


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We understand the unique challenges faced by IT professionals in the public sector and have demonstrated time and again that our bespoke solutions, tailored to meet the specific needs of their operations, ensure the resilience, efficiency, and scalability needed for government applications and public service delivery. 

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We understand that staying ahead of technological advancements is crucial for economic growth, and that’s why our data centres are expanding to meet the increasing demands of modern businesses. If you’re looking to future-proof your operations and optimise your IT strategies, get in touch to discuss how we can help you get where you want to be.

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Reflections on techUK's report: how data centres can boost UK economic growth

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About techUK's report

In an age where digital technology is at the heart of economic advancement, data centres have emerged as the backbone of the UK’s digital infrastructure. A recent report by techUK, a trade association fostering innovation and collaboration across business, government, and stakeholders, underscores the immense contribution that data centres make to the UK economy. In partnership with Henham Strategy, techUK has provided a detailed examination of the sector, presenting both quantitative and qualitative evidence of its importance, alongside strategic recommendations for its growth.

The economic contribution of data centres

The report presents compelling evidence of the data centre sector’s substantial impact on the UK economy. Currently, data centres annually contribute £4.7 billion in Gross Value Added (GVA), support 43,500 jobs, and provide £640 million in taxes to the exchequer. These figures alone highlight the sector’s significance, but what’s even more promising is the projected annual growth rate of 10-15%, signalling further economic benefits.

To harness the full potential of data centres, the report calls for greater collaboration between industry leaders and both central and local governments. This collaboration is crucial for providing the necessary power, connectivity, and skilled workforce required to sustain growth in a sector that is critical to economic growth.

Drawing lessons from various regions, the report highlights examples of successful data centre projects, including our own ongoing MCR2 construction project in Manchester in collaboration with our long-standing partner, Keysource. This project exemplifies sustainable development, aligning with our commitment to delivering high-quality, resilient, and secure solutions. Such examples demonstrate the importance of integrating sustainability into growth strategies, ensuring long-term benefits for both the economy and the environment.

techUK's key recommendations

The report by techUK is insightful and comprehensive – for the purposes of this article, we have extracted and focused on a few key recommendations made by techUK across four areas to bolster the data centre sector’s contribution to the national economy. To get the full picture, we strongly suggest reading the full report.

Energy

The report recognises the industry’s strides towards securing low and carbon-free energy supplies. To further this progress, techUK suggests actions that should be taken at policy level such as monitoring and reporting on connection queues and reforming queue processes to ensure timely market entry of projects, monitoring energy costs, and providing open data on grid connection timescales and project options for developers and investors to enable contractual certainty and flexibility (especially with potential digital infrastructure demand increases).

“It is incumbent upon data centre operators to make responsible energy choices that align with sustainability goals. While generating our own electricity might not be feasible, we do have the power to choose where our energy comes from and ensure it is environmentally friendly. This means going beyond merely purchasing certificates that claim renewable energy use – it requires a commitment to sourcing genuine, renewable, and zero-carbon electricity. We achieve this by partnering with suppliers like Bryt Energy, a provider of 100% renewable electricity for our entire electricity supply” (Dominic Phillips, Datum CEO).

Sustainability

Despite a doubling of data centre workload since 2015, electricity demand from data centres has remained stable, which demonstrates the progress the data centre sector has made in driving efficiencies. techUK advocates for a number of measures to further reduce environmental impact and promote sustainable operations, including rewarding operators who have robust net-zero plans in place, and ensuring flexible rules around heat export.

  • Our experience: Our Embodied Carbon Impact Assessment Report evaluated the expected carbon footprint of our ongoing Manchester data centre construction project (MCR2), guiding decisions on sustainable infrastructure and building material selection – we prioritised locally manufactured materials and employed local labour and subcontractors wherever possible, reinforcing our commitment to supporting the community and reducing transportation emissions. Furthermore, the cooling systems have been designed with heat recovery capabilities and we are in the early stages of discussions with local stakeholders to channel this recovered heat into a community heat network project.

Planning

According to techUK, reforming the UK’s planning system is essential to unlocking the full potential of data centres to drive significant economic growth. Amongst other things, techUK recommends allocating resources within local planning authorities to efficiently progress data centre applications.

“We are pleased to report that we have had a very positive experience with our ongoing construction of MCR2 – our collaboration with a communicative local planning authority has been instrumental, providing clear and helpful guidance throughout the design and build process. From the outset, we designed MCR2 to reflect sustainable best practice, incorporating features like photovoltaic systems, heat recovery, and on-site EV chargers. We also designed the building to ensure that it complements its local surroundings, which helped avoid any significant planning hurdles. We have prioritised environmental considerations by minimising noise and integrating a substantial attenuation tank to support public drainage systems during severe storms, reducing flooding risks” (Matt Edgley, Datum COO).

Skills development

Addressing the skills gap is vital for the sector’s future. The report urges central and local governments to implement policies that promote the development of digital and technical skills to ensure that the next generation is equipped to thrive in careers within data centres, sustaining the industry’s momentum.

  • Our experience: As a growing company, we’re acutely aware of the need to foster an environment that encourages continuous learning and skills development. We recognise the importance of nurturing our team to develop the technical skills and expertise required to thrive in this sector.

Find out more

The contribution of data centres extends beyond mere infrastructure – they significantly impact the economy at local, regional, and national levels, and create employment opportunities. The industry is spearheading innovations and initiatives to enhance the resilience, sustainability, and efficiency of data centres but, despite these advancements, the sector faces several challenges that need addressing to fully harness its potential in driving economic growth within the UK. Overcoming these hurdles will be crucial to ensure that data centres continue to support the nation’s digital infrastructure and economic development.

The full techUK report is available here. Or, to talk to us about your data centre requirements, please get in touch with a member of our team.

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