AIP partners with Caterpillar for 2GW AI power

Developer of integrated AI power and compute infrastructure platforms American Intelligence & Power Corporation (AIP), construction equipment manufacturer Caterpillar, and equipment deliverer Boyd CAT have formed a strategic partnership to support the development of AIP’s Monarch Compute Campus in West Virginia, USA. The agreement includes a purchase arrangement for dedicated onsite power infrastructure, intended to support hyperscale and enterprise data centre requirements. The initial phase will provide up to 2GW of generation capacity, with power delivery beginning in 2026 and full capacity online during 2027. Under the agreement, AIP has ordered 2GW of fast-response natural gas generator sets to support the first phase of Monarch. Deliveries are scheduled between September 2026 and August 2027. The generation systems will be supported by battery energy storage systems (BESS), intended to manage rapid load changes associated with AI workloads. The equipment is expected to be commissioned within months of delivery, supporting phased deployment at the site. Further expansion is planned in later phases. Power platform for AI data centre workloads The Monarch site is designed as a behind-the-meter power platform, with onsite generation intended to operate independently of incremental utility transmission or distribution infrastructure. According to the companies, the platform is intended to support rapid load variability, high availability, and predictable long-term operation for AI-driven data centre environments. Daniel J Shapiro, CEO of AIP, comments, “This strategic alliance reflects a shared commitment to delivering reliable, scalable, and capital-efficient power solutions on an accelerated timeline. "Our design is purpose-built for AI data centre operations, combining fast-response natural gas generation with battery energy storage to manage rapid load variability and deliver consistent power quality at scale. "By leveraging our existing microgrid designation from the State of West Virginia, we can bring new capacity online quickly while supporting long-term grid reliability and resilience, without increasing rates or adding costs for existing utility customers.” Melissa Busen, Senior Vice President of Electric Power at Caterpillar, adds, “This collaboration reflects Caterpillar and our dealers’ continued focus on supporting customers that require primary, continuous-duty power at scale through our broad energy portfolio. "Projects like Monarch demonstrate how Caterpillar’s natural gas generation platforms are being deployed as core infrastructure for data centres and other power intensive applications where reliability, speed of deployment, and lifecycle performance are critical.” Generator details The project will use Caterpillar G3516 fast-response natural gas generator sets, selected for behind-the-meter data centre applications. The generators are designed to support rapid start, load-following operation, and continuous-duty performance. According to the companies, the systems can ramp from zero to full load in approximately seven seconds, supporting workloads with rapid load fluctuations. The generators will operate on natural gas and incorporate emissions controls, including selective catalytic reduction, to support compliance with relevant air permitting requirements. The Monarch platform has a stated long-term target of up to 8GW of planned generation capacity. With an existing West Virginia microgrid designation, the site is intended to operate without increasing rates or adding costs for existing utility customers. In parallel, AIP and Caterpillar have also entered into a strategic alliance framework covering phased expansion planning, operations and maintenance strategy, lifecycle performance, and service and parts support. The agreement also includes vendor equipment financing through Caterpillar Financial, subject to standard terms and conditions and aligned with delivery phasing. For more from Caterpillar, click here.

GCRE extends Energy and Data Centre Partner opportunity

The Global Centre of Rail Excellence (GCRE) has extended its competition to secure an Energy and Data Centre Partner (EDCP) for its 700-hectare site. GCRE is a new, purpose-built facility being developed in South West Wales for international rail research, testing, and net zero technology development. The GCRE site has the potential to become Europe’s leading cluster for rail innovation. In September last year, the company began its search for a partner to develop Renewable Energy Sources (RES) and a data centre (DC) on the site, a former open cast mine equivalent to the size of Gatwick Airport. The plan is for the partner to develop the assets alongside the rail project. Chief Executive Simon Jones notes that ‘significant’ interest had been expressed in the site from developers in the energy and data centre sectors, but confirmed that bidders had requested more time to develop comprehensive proposals for the site. GCRE has therefore decided to extend its search for a partner into 2026, with a revised EDCP Invitation to Tender (ITT) available on the Sell to Wales platform. Potential bidders can register their interest in the opportunity, by completing a ‘Conditions of Participation’ document, which runs from now until 12 noon on 10th March 2026. Opportunities in an emerging data centre region The site is only 30km from Bridgend and 50km from Cardiff, where data centre clusters are already forming. GCRE Chief Executive Simon Jones explains, “The last few weeks have been very encouraging as we have seen the significant interest there is from the commercial market in the GCRE site as a location for high-quality renewable energy and data centre infrastructure. “What’s clear, however, is that more time is needed for bidders to develop their proposals. It has meant that we have taken the decision as a company to extend our partner search and give everyone in the market more time to put forward proposals. “That is why we have issued a new ITT with an extended timeline to allow that interest to crystalise into firm proposals. We had originally hoped to appoint a partner by the end of the current Senedd term, but that has not been possible and so we have extended the time available into 2026. “The opportunity for a long-term partnership with GCRE is a unique one. The GCRE site’s size, power grid, and telecoms connectivity make it very appealing for the development of renewable energy assets and data centre infrastructure. 132kV and 400kV power lines cross over the GCRE site, with high-quality fibre connectivity being progressed for the area. “It’s right that we take time to find the correct partner. Energy and data centre infrastructure at GCRE will help raise the economic profile of the site, something that is very important as we continue our search for private investment for the rail project.” The EDCP competition is being developed in parallel with GCRE’s separate search for private investment for the railway. Simon continues, “We have seen in recent months the important ways in which the energy and AI policy landscape is developing fast. The UK is seeking to harness the opportunities of net zero transition and AI by developing the infrastructure needed to support it. "This region is at the forefront of that change. Just recently, South Wales was designated as a new AI Growth Zone by the UK Government. “GCRE and the modern energy and data infrastructure we can build on the site is one of those opportunities and it’s something we believe we can use as a platform for new green jobs around an international rail cluster.”

Thorn, Zumtobel to exhibit at Data Centre World

Thorn and Zumtobel, both lighting brands of the Zumtobel Group, are to present a "unified approach" to data centre lighting at Data Centre World 2026. The companies say the focus will be on three operational priorities for data centre operators and delivery teams: reduced energy consumption, reliable operation, and consistent control across white space, plant, circulation, and perimeter areas. The stand will outline how a coordinated lighting and controls strategy can support specification, installation, and ongoing operation across different data centre environments. The Zumtobel Group says its approach is intended to support consistency across projects, while also simplifying long-term maintenance and operational management. Lighting controls for data centres A central element of the stand will be the use of the LITECOM control platform, which is presented as a way to connect a defined portfolio of luminaires across different zones of a data centre. The companies say this is intended to support scheduling, presence detection, daylight strategies, scene setting, and portfolio standardisation. The stand will also feature TECTON II, shown as part of a continuous-row lighting infrastructure approach, which is designed to support rapid, tool-free assembly and future adaptation. Lighting applications on show will cover white space, technical areas, offices, and exterior zones. Products listed for demonstration include: • Thorn: Aquaforce Pro, ForceLED, Piazza, Omega Pro 2, IQ Beam • Zumtobel: IZURA, TECTON II, MELLOW LIGHT, AMPHIBIA, LANOS All are shown as being controlled via LITECOM. The stand design itself will be intended to reflect Zumtobel Group's stated sustainability principles, using reused and modular components from previous events, with minimal new-build elements. In addition, graphics have been consolidated to reduce printing and waste. Neil Raithatha, Head of Marketing, Thorn and Zumtobel Lighting UK & Ireland, notes, “Data centre customers need lighting that is consistent, efficient, and straightforward to manage. “Our presentation this year brings together proven luminaires with a control platform that helps project teams deliver quickly and run reliably, from the white space to the perimeter.” Thorn and Zumtobel will be exhibiting at Stand F140 at Excel London on 4–5 March 2026. For more from Thorn and Zumtobel, click here.

Case study: The data centre's shield against errors

In an industry where a single unplugged cable can stall a production line, "good-enough" labelling isn't an option. A leading automotive manufacturer faced a challenge: their cabling was becoming a maze of human error, threatening the uptime of their mission-critical services. The solution wasn't just better labels; it was a standardised identification ecosystem. By deploying industrial-grade materials and the high-volume BradyPrinter i7100, as well as the handheld M610, the manufacturer ensured that every rack and server remained clearly identifiable under any conditions. This move towards precision eliminated the guesswork that leads to accidental disconnections. The result? A solid infrastructure where technicians move with confidence. The operational resilience starts at the surface - with a reliable label that stays readable. Click here to read more and to learn more about reliable identification solutions for data centres. Meet Brady experts at Data Centre World (DCW) in London, UK, 4–5 March 2026, Booth F175. For more from Brady, click here.

DataVita's North Lanarkshire site named AI Growth Zone

Data centre and cloud services provider DataVita's North Lanarkshire site has been named a UK AI Growth Zone, unlocking £8.2 billion of private investment for the region - one of the largest technology commitments in Scottish history. The project brings together three integrated components: 500MW of AI-ready data centre capacity, over 1GW of private wire renewable energy infrastructure, and 'innovation parks' designed to attract next-generation industries. Over 3,400 jobs will reportedly be created in the coming years, from immediate construction roles through to permanent positions in data centre operations, renewable energy, and AI-related fields. Site details DataVita is building 500MW of hyperscale data centre capacity optimised for AI workloads. The facilities use closed-loop cooling systems with near-zero water consumption and will operate at a power usage effectiveness (PUE) of 1.15. Over 1GW of renewable energy - wind, solar, and battery storage - will be developed on private wire connections directly to the data centres. The system will be grid positive, exporting surplus clean energy to the national grid. Power costs will be sub-10p per kWh, with carbon intensity under 5 gCO₂e/kWh - 97% lower than the London grid average. Purpose-built 'innovation parks' will provide the physical infrastructure for next-generation industries. The development includes laboratory space, robotics research facilities, and advanced manufacturing units, aiming to attract companies and researchers who need proximity to AI compute at scale. The goal is to create a thriving ecosystem where the anchor investment draws new businesses and hundreds of additional jobs to the region. A community fund will also deliver over £543 million to North Lanarkshire over the next 15 years, supporting skills and training programmes, local charities, and community initiatives. The fund will be governed by an independent board with local representation, ensuring the community decides how the money is spent. Additional commitments include 50 apprenticeships and an AI Venture Fund backing Scottish startups. Eco-conscious development DataVita claims the AI Growth Zone will be one of the most sustainable AI infrastructure developments in the world. The system is grid positive, with renewable sources to generate more energy than the data centres consume. Carbon intensity will be 97% lower than other major UK data centre hubs and with almost zero water waste. Technology Secretary Liz Kendall comments, "Today’s announcement is about creating good jobs, backing innovation, and making sure the benefits AI will bring can be felt across the community. “From thousands of new jobs and billions in investment through to support for local people and their families, AI Growth Zones are bringing generation-defining opportunity to all corners of the country.” Danny Quinn, Managing Director of DataVita, adds, "Scotland has everything AI needs: the talent, the green energy, and now the infrastructure. But this goes beyond the physical build. "We're creating innovation parks, new energy infrastructure, and attracting inward investment from some of the world's leading technology companies. This is a real opportunity for North Lanarkshire, and we want to make sure local people share in it. "The £543 million community fund means the benefits stay here: good jobs, new skills, and investment that actually reaches the people who live and work in this area." For more from DataVita, click here.

Corning, Meta agree $6bn data centre supply deal

Corning, a US manufacturer of optical fibre for telecommunications and data centres, and US technology company Meta Platforms have today announced a multi-year agreement of up to $6 billion (£4.3 billion) to support the build-out of advanced data centres in the United States. Under the agreement, Corning will supply Meta with optical fibre, cable, and connectivity products to support its data centre and AI infrastructure. As part of the arrangement, Corning will expand manufacturing capacity across its operations in North Carolina, including a major expansion at its optical cable manufacturing facility in Hickory, where Meta will act as an anchor customer. Corning says the agreement will support increased domestic production of optical connectivity technology used in large-scale data centre deployments. Manufacturing expansion and employment impact Wendell P. Weeks, Chairman and Chief Executive Officer of Corning, comments, “This long-term partnership with Meta reflects Corning’s commitment to develop, innovate, and manufacture the critical technologies that power next-generation data centres here in the US. “The investment will expand our manufacturing footprint in North Carolina, support an increase in Corning’s employment levels in the state of 15–20%, and help sustain a highly skilled workforce of more than 5,000 people - including the scientists, engineers, and production teams at two of the world’s largest optical fibre and cable manufacturing facilities. "Together with Meta, we are strengthening domestic supply chains and helping to ensure that advanced data centres are built using US innovation and advanced manufacturing.” Meta says it is continuing to expand its data centre footprint in the US and increase the use of domestically manufactured technology to support its infrastructure requirements. Joel Kaplan, Chief Global Affairs Officer at Meta, notes, “Building the most advanced data centres in the US requires world-class partners and American manufacturing. "We are proud to partner with Corning - a company with deep expertise in optical connectivity and a strong commitment to domestic manufacturing - to supply the high-performance fibre optic cables our AI infrastructure requires. "This collaboration will help create well-paid, skilled jobs in the US, strengthen local economies, and help secure the US lead in the global AI race.” The agreement covers the supply of latest-generation optical fibre, cable, and connectivity products designed to meet the density and scale requirements of large AI-focused data centres.

GridAI names new CEO

GridAI Technologies, a US provider of AI-driven software platforms for managing utility load and distributed energy resources, has appointed Marshall Chapin as CEO of its AI and energy infrastructure subsidiary, GridAI, following its acquisition of the company. GridAI Technologies says the appointment is intended to support its expansion at the intersection of artificial intelligence and energy infrastructure, as demand increases from hyperscale AI data centre developments. GridAI is developing grid and power-management software for large-scale AI data centre campuses. The platform is designed to coordinate distributed energy resources and manage power across multiple scales, with the aim of supporting more efficient and reliable operation as energy demand from AI workloads grows. The company says its software supports functions such as market-based dispatch, peak-load reduction, and dynamic pricing in utility and commercial environments. It also monitors real-time inputs, including energy prices and weather, to support operational decision-making. Platform focus and leadership background New hyperscale campuses can consume hundreds of megawatts of power, requiring advanced systems to manage and optimise energy resources. GridAI says that its platform incorporates forecasting, bidding, and dynamic load-balancing to support reliability and efficiency across large installations. The company also says the platform can be used in residential and small business environments to manage behind-the-meter assets such as HVAC systems, appliances, and batteries. Chapin brings experience across grid optimisation, energy transition, and distributed energy. Since March 2025, he has served as interim CEO of Amp X, an AI-driven grid-edge platform that is also a GridAI subsidiary. Jason Sawyer, CEO of GridAI Technologies, comments, “Marshall’s proven ability to commercialise complex energy-software platforms and scale global go-to-market operations makes him the ideal leader for GridAI at this pivotal moment. "With hyperscale AI campuses emerging as the defining infrastructure challenge of this decade, our power orchestration capabilities will be critical in helping hyperscalers deploy energy assets rapidly, profitably, and with enhanced reliability and resilience.” Marshall says, “GridAI is uniquely positioned to help hyperscalers, utilities, and energy-asset owners orchestrate the massive amount of flexible power required for this transformation. I’m excited to build on this vision and lead GridAI through this extraordinary phase of growth.”

XYZ Reality appoints new COO and CFO

XYZ Reality, a provider of augmented reality (AR) and real-time project controls, has appointed Bruno P.S. Rocha as Chief Operating Officer (COO) and Soroosh Keshtgar (pictured above) as Chief Financial Officer (CFO) at a time when demand is increasing across data centre construction projects. The company says adoption of its construction delivery platform is rising across hyperscale data centre and mission-critical environments, with projects increasing in scale and complexity. The appointments are intended to support operational growth and long-term expansion. As COO, Bruno will be responsible for operational execution, aligning teams, and strengthening consistency across delivery as the company expands across markets and customers. His remit also includes shaping the operating model and supporting planned fundraising activity. He has previously held senior roles at Palantir and Gecko Robotics, with experience in engineering-led and robotics organisations. He joins XYZ Reality with a background focused on applying technology to physical-world operations. Soroosh joins as CFO as the company scales into larger projects and prepares for further international growth. His role will focus on strengthening financial systems, processes, and governance to support decision-making and future investment. He began his career in aerospace engineering before qualifying as a chartered accountant at PwC. He has since held senior finance roles in high-growth organisations, with experience in scaling finance functions during periods of rapid expansion and organisational change. Leadership to support mission-critical growth David Mitchell, founder and CEO of XYZ Reality, says, “As we scale the business, it’s critical that we strengthen our leadership team alongside the customer base and technology. "Bruno and Soroosh bring the experience, perspective, and operational discipline we need to support increasingly complex projects and build a resilient company for long-term growth.” Bruno Rocha, COO at XYZ Reality, comments, “XYZ Reality is at a real inflection point. The technology is proven and the momentum is clear; now it’s about building a company that can scale well beyond a single product or market. "This is about solving real problems in construction. With the right people and ambition, there’s a genuine opportunity to rethink how construction is delivered end to end.” Soroosh Keshtgar, CFO at XYZ Reality, adds, “As XYZ Reality scales into larger, more complex projects, financial clarity becomes critical. "My focus is on building the systems, transparency, and insight that allow the business to make confident, data-informed decisions, supporting customers, investors, and the wider team as we grow.” For more from XYZ Reality, click here.

ISE 2026 launches inaugural CyberSecurity Summit

Integrated Systems Europe (ISE), a Barcelona-based annual trade show for audiovisual (AV) and systems integration professionals, has announced the launch of the CyberSecurity Summit, a major new addition to its 2026 content programme. Scheduled for Thursday, 5 February 2026, the Summit will tackle the escalating cybersecurity challenges confronting the professional AV and systems integration industries as digital threats increasingly impact critical infrastructure, smart buildings, venues, and public services. The announcement comes during European Cybersecurity Awareness Month, a continent-wide initiative coordinated by ENISA and the European Commission to promote safer digital practices across businesses, institutions, and individuals. With cybercrime surging across Europe and globally, the timing of ISE’s new Summit couldn’t be more relevant. Cybersecurity: A business-critical priority for AV As AV systems become increasingly networked and embedded in enterprise, public sector, and venue environments, they are directly exposed to the same vulnerabilities as traditional IT infrastructure. From control rooms and conferencing platforms to digital signage, smart buildings, and event venues, AV solutions are now high-value targets for ransomware, data breaches, social engineering, and denial-of-service attacks. At ISE’s CyberSecurity Summit, AV professionals will learn about safeguarding critical systems, navigate evolving regulations like NIS2 and ISO 27001, and transform cybersecurity from a vulnerability into a strategic advantage, before it’s too late “Cybersecurity is no longer a technical afterthought; it’s a business-critical factor,” says Mike Blackman, Managing Director of Integrated Systems Events. “For AV manufacturers, integrators, and technology users, it’s essential for accessing public tenders, ensuring regulatory compliance, and building long-term trust with clients.” Pere Ferrer i Sastre, Summit Chair and former Director General of the Catalan Police (Mossos d’Esquadra), with extensive experience in public security, digital transformation, regulatory frameworks, and critical infrastructure management, will facilitate discussions addressing emerging digital threats to the AV and systems integration sectors. He explains, “Cybersecurity is no longer optional; it lies at the heart of every AV innovation. ISE’s CyberSecurity Summit brings together the brightest minds in our industry to confront today’s digital threats head-on and turn them into strategic advantages. "By sharing actionable insights, proven strategies, and real-world experience, we will empower AV professionals to protect critical systems, lead with confidence, and build a safer, smarter future for the entire industry.” The CyberSecurity Summit at ISE 2026 will unite AV and cybersecurity leaders to tackle the most pressing challenges facing connected AV systems in critical infrastructure, smart buildings, and corporate environments. Opening with Pere Ferrer, the Summit features keynotes from Shaun Reardon (DNV Cyber) on building cyber resilience, Timo Kosig and Andrew Dowsett (Barco Control Rooms) on secure operations, and Pedro Pablo Pérez (TRC) on protecting corporate communications. Roundtables with Laura Caballero (Cybersecurity Agency of Catalonia), Folly Farrel (TÜV SÜD), and Sergi Carmona (Veolia España) will explore compliance, governance, and best practices for securing critical AV environments. Cybersecurity: A strategic imperative for AV The Summit is part of ISE 2026’s overarching theme, "Push Beyond", which challenges the global AV and systems integration community to redefine what’s possible. By introducing the CyberSecurity Summit, ISE is pushing beyond traditional boundaries to address one of the most urgent and complex issues facing the industry today. Don’t miss your chance to be part of what’s next Registration for ISE 2026 is now open, so take your place among the visionaries, trailblazers, and creative minds from every corner of the globe. Whether you're an AV integrator, manufacturer, IT manager, or facilities director, the CyberSecurity Summit offers essential knowledge and networking opportunities to help you navigate the evolving threat landscape. It’s a chance to learn from leading voices in cybersecurity and discover how to protect your business, your clients, and your reputation. Reserve your spot at the event where tomorrow’s innovations are unveiled, and let’s Push Beyond what’s possible, together: Click here to register for free using the code ‘dcnnews’ to Push Beyond.

Vertiv launches AI predictive maintenance service

Vertiv, a global provider of critical digital infrastructure, has launched a new AI-powered predictive maintenance service, Vertiv Next Predict, aimed at modern data centres and facilities supporting AI workloads, including AI factories. The managed service is designed to move maintenance away from time-based and reactive models, using data analysis to identify potential issues before they affect operations. Vertiv says the service supports power, cooling, and IT systems with the aim of improving visibility and supporting more consistent infrastructure performance. The company notes that, as AI workloads increase compute intensity, data centre operators are under pressure to maintain uptime and performance across increasingly complex environments. In this respect, predictive maintenance and advanced analytics are positioned as a way to support more informed operational decisions. Ryan Jarvis, Vice President of the Global Services Business Unit at Vertiv, says, “Data centre operators need innovative technologies to stay ahead of potential risks as compute intensity rises and infrastructures evolve. “Vertiv Next Predict helps data centres unlock uptime, shifting maintenance from traditional calendar-based routines to a proactive, data-driven strategy. We move from assumptions to informed decisions by continuously monitoring equipment condition and enabling risk mitigation before potential impacts to operations.” AI-based monitoring and anomaly detection Vertiv Next Predict uses AI-based anomaly detection to analyse operating conditions and identify deviations from expected behaviour at an early stage. A predictive algorithm then assesses potential operational impact to determine risk and prioritise responses. The service also includes root cause analysis to help isolate contributing factors, supporting more targeted resolution. Based on system data and site context, prescriptive actions are defined and carried through to execution, with corrective measures carried out by Vertiv Services personnel. According to Vertiv, this approach is intended to support earlier intervention and reduce the likelihood of unplanned outages by addressing issues before they escalate. The service currently supports a range of Vertiv power and cooling platforms, including battery energy storage systems (BESS) and liquid cooling components. Vertiv says the platform is designed to expand over time to support additional technologies as data centre infrastructure evolves. Vertiv Next Predict is intended to integrate as part of a broader grid-to-chip service architecture, with the aim of supporting long-term scalability and alignment with future data centre technologies. For more from Vertiv, click here.