E D I T O R ' S Q U E S T I O N
Data centres drive the UK economy , powering online banking , healthcare , streaming and remote work . Contributing £ 4.7 billion GVA and 40,000 jobs , their impact is set to double in five years . With growing digital demand , building sustainable , resilient data centres is vital for long-term growth . Local authorities and developers must prioritise key strategies to future-proof the nation ’ s digital economy and meet both current and future needs .
Energy efficiency and renewable energy integration
Data centres rely on energy , making efficiency crucial . Advanced cooling technologies , renewable energy integration via PPAs or onsite generation , and smart energy management systems are key to reducing consumption and achieving carbon neutrality . With AI driving a sixfold rise in electricity demand , modernising the grid is vital to support future growth .
Strategic location and planning support
Choosing the right location is an important factor when considering the planning and building of data centres . First of all , data centres should be situated in areas with robust power supply and connectivity infrastructure . Proximity to renewable energy sources and the potential for heat reuse in district heating systems should also be considered . Additionally , a supportive regulatory environment is crucial for the timely and sustainable development of data centres , and local authorities should streamline planning processes and provide clear guidelines for data centre development
Sustainable design and construction
Sustainable construction practices , including the use of prefabricated and modular data centres , can reduce the environmental impact and construction time . These methods also allow for scalability and flexibility in design , accommodating future technological advancements . Certification schemes like BREEAM or LEED can guide sustainable design and operational practices . Incorporating biodiversity enhancement measures , such as green roofs and walls , can further improve sustainability .
Collaboration and community engagement
Collaboration among industry , government and communities is crucial .
Developers should engage stakeholders to address concerns and deliver local benefits , such as community facilities and infrastructure .
Investing in education and training can bridge the industry ’ s skills gap , with partnerships with universities and colleges creating pathways for local talent .
Early involvement of data centre representatives in policy discussions ensures alignment with sustainability goals and supports community growth .
Leveraging local digital ecosystems
Utilising insights from the techUK Local Digital Index can help identify regional strengths and areas for improvement in digital infrastructure .
This index provides valuable data on digital skills , adoption , infrastructure and investment across the UK , guiding policymakers and developers in making informed decisions .
By prioritising these factors , local authorities and developers can build data centres that are not only sustainable and resilient but also catalysts for regional economic growth and innovation across the UK .
LUISA CARDANI , HEAD OF DATA CENTRES , TECHUK
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