Data Centre Build News & Insights

Macquarie tops out $350M, 47MW AI data centre

The New South Wales Treasurer, Hon. Daniel Mookhey MP, today poured the final concrete on Macquarie Data Centres’ newest 47 megawatt (MW) facility, IC3 Super West. The ceremony marks the completion of the building’s external structure and a major milestone toward its scheduled opening in September 2026. IC3 Super West will be the only data centre to add new AI capacity to Sydney’s north zone in 2026, Macquarie states. With all the end-state power already secured, the facility is being purpose-built to meet the growing demands from hyperscalers, enterprise and neoclouds for GPU and high-performance computing capacity in the Tier 1 hub. The facility is part of Macquarie Data Centres’ 200MW development pipeline adding more AI and cloud capacity to the market. NSW Treasurer, Hon. Daniel Mookhey MP, says, “Companies like Macquarie Data Centres keep investing, keep expanding, and keep believing that NSW can be a global home for high-tech infrastructure. And it happens because the government has chosen to take planning and investment delivery seriously. “In the years ahead, thousands of businesses will run smarter because this building exists. Research will accelerate because this building exists. AI capability will expand because this building exists. And NSW will be more competitive – globally competitive – because this building exists.” Sydney is seeking to cement its position as a leading hub for AI, cloud and digital innovation, supported by new initiatives such as the NSW Government’s new Investment Delivery Authority - which aims to accelerate future technology infrastructure projects like Macquarie Data Centres’ recently announced 150MW planned site. Macquarie Data Centres Group Executive, David Hirst, comments, “IC3 Super West is the next data centre in our pipeline of sites planned to add circa 200MW of AI and cloud capacity in Sydney. Demand for high-density AI infrastructure is the most significant megatrend we’ve seen in over 25 years in the data centre industry. IC3 Super West, opening in Q3 2026, is purpose-built for the high-density power and liquid cooling demands of new AI technology. Sovereign data centres keep Australia competitive in the global market and are the foundation of our AI future.” IC3 Super West is the third facility to be built at the leading provider’s 65MW Macquarie Park Data Centre Campus in Sydney’s north zone and is designed to support a hybrid mix of air and liquid cooling for direct-to-chip, high-density AI and cloud workloads. Phase 1 of the build is a circa $350 million investment and will deliver the complete core and shell with 6MW IT load fitted out. For more from Macquarie, click here.

AECOM appointed to deliver data centre in Spain

AECOM, a global infrastructure specialist, today announced it has been selected by Nostrum Data Centers (an affiliate of Nostrum Group) to lead the design and construction management of a new data centre in Badajoz, Spain. With an investment exceeding €1.9 billion, ‘Nostrum Evergreen’ is reportedly one of Spain’s most ambitious digital infrastructures projects, with capacity expected to reach 500 megawatts, supporting the rapid growth of AI across Europe. The first phase includes the design and construction of data halls and the critical operational infrastructure, with an initial capacity of 150 million watts of electric capacity (MWe). The second phase, which will allow the site to reach 300 MWe, is scheduled to begin in early 2029. The complex’s design will enable scalability up to 500 MWe, making it one of the most ambitious facilities in southern Europe. A ‘next-generation’ campus, Nostrum Evergreen will also integrate advanced cooling systems and intelligent power consumption management. "This data centre in Badajoz will have a total capacity similar to the combined capacity of all current operational data centres in Spain,” says Gabriel Nebreda, CEO of Nostrum Group. “Furthermore, we have set ourselves a very demanding deadline to start construction of this mega campus next year. Achieving this ambition is only possible through strategic partnerships with leading global players in the data centre sector. We are very pleased to announce this agreement with AECOM, one of the most prestigious engineering firms, who have extensive experience in AI gigafactories worldwide." "We are delighted to collaborate with Nostrum Group on this project, which will become an international benchmark in data centres,” adds Javier Camy, Managing Director, Spain, AECOM. “At AECOM, we leverage our global capability in highly complex technical projects and our strong position in the sector to apply a transformative approach that ensures a sustainable, forward-thinking solution. This partnership reflects our ability to co-lead initiatives that redefine regions and enhance the global competitiveness of our clients." “This is very positive news for the city and for the region as a whole. It represents a decisive opportunity for the development of Badajoz and highlights the dedication and strong commitment to our city, something we deeply value and appreciate,” notes Ignacio Gragera, Mayor of Badajoz. The project, which expects to obtain its building permit by mid-2026, has already secured electrical capacity, without relying on the future Spanish Electrical Grid Development Plan 2025–2030. In addition, it boasts more than 200,000 square metres of ready-to-build industrial land in one of the region’s most advanced industrial parks. The site aims to position the Extremadura region as an emerging hub in the European data centre ecosystem. For more from AECOM, click here.

atNorth's DEN01 to supply district heating in Copenhagen

atNorth, an Icelandic operator of sustainable Nordic data centres, has agreed a partnership with Vestforbrænding, Denmark’s largest waste-to-energy company, to supply excess heat from its forthcoming DEN01 data centre campus into the district heating network serving Greater Copenhagen. DEN01, a 22.5MW site in Ballerup, is scheduled to open in early 2026. Through the collaboration, warm water generated as a by-product of direct liquid cooling will be transferred into Vestforbrænding’s network from 2028. The recovered heat is expected to support the heating of more than 8,000 homes, reducing energy consumption for local central heating and lowering emissions for both organisations. Denmark has pursued decarbonisation for several years and has set a national target to become net zero by 2045, with a 110% emissions reduction target by 2050. Coal is being phased out of the district heating sector, and heat-reuse projects form part of the country’s circular economy strategy. atNorth highlights that the initiative aligns with its wider approach to sustainable construction, energy efficiency, and community-focused development. Vestforbrænding is expanding its network as part of its 2030 District Heating Plan, replacing oil and gas boilers across thousands of households and integrating new heat sources such as surplus heat from data centres. Heat-reuse initiatives across the Nordics Steen Neuchs Vedel, CEO of Vestforbrænding, says, “For many years, we have talked about surplus heat from data centres being part of the future. Now, the future is here. “With today’s contract signing, we are showing the way forward for how surplus heat from data centres can reach people’s homes. There has also been talk about sector coupling in the district heating sector: today, we demonstrate how this can happen in practice, to the benefit of consumers.” Eyjólfur Magnús Kristinsson, CEO at atNorth, adds, “As the demand for AI-ready digital infrastructure continues to increase, it is imperative that data centre companies scale in a responsible way. “By actively seeking heat-reuse partnerships for our data centres, we can mitigate our environmental impact, benefit the communities in which we operate, and help clients decarbonise their IT workloads.” The announcement follows atNorth’s partnership with Wa3rm, which plans to use waste heat from the company’s DEN02 site to support local vegetable production. atNorth has also agreed a heat-reuse initiative with Kesko Corporation to supply recovered heat from its FIN02 site to a neighbouring store. For more from atNorth, click here.

Subzero Engineering opens new Vietnam facility

Subzero Engineering, a provider of data centre containment systems, has expanded its global operations with a new facility in Ho Chi Minh City, strengthening its position in the Asia-Pacific market and supporting growing regional demand for data centre infrastructure. The site will act as a central hub for APAC activities, reinforcing the company’s long-term presence in the region and improving proximity to partners and supply chains. Midge Pan, General Manager, APAC, Subzero Engineering, comments, “This expansion is about more than infrastructure; it’s about proximity to our partners, agility in the supply chain, and speed to market. “Vietnam offers a unique combination of talent, resilience, and strategic location that enables us to meet APAC’s growing demand for cutting-edge digital infrastructure.” 'Centre of excellence' for design and manufacturing The Ho Chi Minh City facility will serve as a "centre of excellence" supporting global engineering teams. It will accommodate manufacturing, design, and research and development functions, and will produce Subzero’s containment systems, modular enclosures, aisle frames, and airflow management equipment. Dedicated research and development space will also support the creation of technologies tailored to APAC’s fast-changing data centre market, including approaches aimed at AI, high-density computing, and sustainability. Shane Kilfoil, President of Subzero Engineering, explains, “This new facility is a strategic cornerstone in Subzero’s global vision, designed to integrate localised innovation with global scale. “By establishing a centre of excellence in Vietnam, we’re not just expanding our footprint; we’re embedding agility, resilience, and sustainability into the core of our operations.” The company expects the site to create more than 50 skilled roles across engineering and technical disciplines. Subzero also plans to form partnerships with local universities and technical institutions to support training and internship programmes. The facility has been developed within a building designed with sustainability features, including on-site solar generation, energy-efficient systems, and low-carbon construction methods. Subzero says these measures reflect its wider environmental commitments and its focus on reducing operational impact. With established operations across North America and Europe, the addition of the Vietnam site aims to strengthen the company’s global network. It also allows Subzero to offer more responsive support to regional customers as demand for new data centre capacity increases. For more from Subzero Engineering, click here.

Pure DC secures approval for Madrid data centre

Pure Data Centres Group (Pure DC), a digital infrastructure organisation, has received final planning approval for the first phase of its €400 million Madrid data centre development, including a private substation. The campus has a planned capacity of 70MW, with Phase 1 comprising a substation and a 30MW facility. The project is expected to support digital demand across the region and strengthen local energy resilience. More than 400 construction roles will be created, with an emphasis on employing local firms. Once operational, the site will provide more than 50 permanent technical and support positions and contribute to improvements in nearby power and telecommunications infrastructure. Work is expected to begin this month, with early activity focused on connecting high-voltage lines from the Iberdrola power substation and constructing the new private substation. Substation and modular data hall development The private substation will use environmentally focused gas-insulated switchgear from Siemens. This equipment replaces traditional insulating gases with alternatives that avoid greenhouse gas emissions and toxic by-products. Pure DC notes that the site will be among the first in Spain to use this type of switchgear. The company anticipates completing the substation by early 2027, followed by phased construction of modular data halls. These halls will support high-density deployments and can be configured for either air or liquid cooling. Both cooling approaches use closed-loop systems with zero operational water consumption. Pedro L. Sanz, Mayor of Meco Municipality, comments, “This licence approval highlights the constructive dialogue and collaboration between Pure DC and our City Council. "The project not only reinforces our city's position as a technology hub, but marks a mutual achievement that will boost employment and the digital future of our region.” Dame Dawn Childs, CEO at Pure Data Centres, notes, “Like many major European cities, Madrid’s demand for digital infrastructure far out-strips the supply coming online. “Pure DC’s ability to bring on new low-latency, high-quality capacity in such supply constrained locations demonstrates our capability to deliver compelling partnerships for local authorities, potential customers, and our supply chain.” Pure DC also plans to work with nearby communities, mirroring programmes in place at its other sites. These include partnerships with schools and universities, training and careers initiatives, community outreach, and collaborations with local organisations on environmental projects. For more from Pure DC, click here.

InfraPartners, JLL partner to accelerate AI DC delivery

InfraPartners, a designer and builder of prefabricated AI data centres, and JLL, a global commercial real estate and investment management company, have formed a strategic agreement to accelerate the development and operation of AI data centres. The partnership brings together InfraPartners’ prefabricated AI data centre designs and JLL’s capabilities in site selection, project management, construction oversight, financial structuring, and facilities management. The companies state that the combined model is intended to address persistent challenges in data centre development, particularly the period between site identification and operational readiness. As investment in AI infrastructure grows, operators increasingly require deployment models that offer predictable schedules, reduced risk, and scalable designs suitable for GPU-heavy environments. Data centre construction continues to face risks associated with labour shortages, schedule delays, and complex financing. InfraPartners and JLL say they aim to manage these issues jointly by integrating design, prefabrication, delivery, and long-term operations into a single framework. Prefabrication and integrated delivery for AI infrastructure “Our clients are asking for faster, lower-risk routes to delivering AI infrastructure,” says Michalis Grigoratos, CEO at InfraPartners. “Our prefabricated, upgradeable digital infrastructure integrates seamlessly with JLL’s expertise across the full project lifecycle, so, together, we’re focused on providing a superior product that keeps pace with AI infrastructure changes and market growth. "Our globally scalable, repeatable approach includes site selection, prefabrication, and long-term operations, reducing time-to-first-token and maximising performance across the lifecycle.” Matt Landek, JLL Division President, Data Centers and Critical Environments, adds, “AI infrastructure demands a new approach - one that’s as dynamic and high-performing as the workloads it supports. “With InfraPartners, we are delivering a unique blueprint that brings real estate, engineering, and operational precision into a unified model.” Kristen Vosmaer, Managing Director at JLL, oversees global programme management, including JLL White Space and facilities management solutions, and supports delivery of the partnership. He comments, “This is one of the first collaborations to fully integrate data centre design, manufacturing, construction, commissioning, computer deployment, and lifecycle management for institutional-grade real estate delivery, marking a significant shift in shortening the time to monetisation for how mission-critical infrastructure assets are developed and maintained.” The companies plan to offer end-to-end capabilities intended to accelerate the delivery of AI-ready facilities for enterprise, government, and cloud operators. Initial deployment efforts will focus on high-growth AI markets in EMEA and the United States from Q1 2026, with plans to expand into additional regions. For more from InfraPartners, click here.

Terra Innovatum, Uvation agree micro-modular nuclear pilot

Terra Innovatum Global, a developer of micro-modular nuclear reactors, and Uvation, an integrated technology provider, have signed a Letter of Intent (LOI) to launch a 1MWe pilot programme of Terra Innovatum’s micro-modular nuclear technology, with an option to scale up to 100MWe. The pilot is intended to support Uvation’s growing requirements for high-density AI and modular data centre infrastructure. Terra Innovatum develops micro-modular nuclear reactors, while Uvation focuses on technology platforms designed for large-scale, performance-intensive AI workloads. The companies state that behind-the-meter nuclear generation could provide a resilient and scalable alternative to grid-dependent power for data centre development. Alessandro Petruzzi, co-founder and CEO at Terra Innovatum, comments, “Uvation’s data centre expansion requires infrastructure that is not only scalable, but fundamentally resilient. "By integrating Terra Innovatum’s SOLO micro-modular reactor, we will offer a behind-the-meter energy source capable of delivering safe, stable, high-density power that traditional grids cannot guarantee. "SOLO adds built-in safety and provides redundancy - important for data centres, de-risking energy deployment during maintenance or shutdowns, ensuring continuity independent of power shortages, and enhancing cybersecurity protection. "This enables next-generation, high-performance modular data centres powered by a clean, uninterrupted energy backbone - unlocking new possibilities for AI, HPC, and mission-critical workloads.” Nuclear as an alternative pathway for energy-constrained AI projects Giordano Morichi, Founding Partner, Chief Business Development Officer and Investor Relations, adds, “As AI infrastructure outpaces today’s grid, the constraint is no longer processing power; it’s reliable, cost-effective power. Uvation’s future commitment to behind-the-meter nuclear reflects a broader market reality: energy security now defines the speed at which AI can scale. "SOLO fast-tracks AI commercialisation by providing near-instant, CO₂-free, revenue-generating power while sidestepping the delays and CapEx overruns inherent to traditional grid-dependent solutions. "This agreement also strengthens our commercial deployment and positions nuclear as the most viable path to support Uvation’s planned multi-gigawatt growth in the AI and data centre sector.” Reen Singh, CEO of Uvation, notes, “Global demand for AI, driven by the US, and the need for sovereign cloud infrastructure is accelerating far faster than the available power to support it. Some of our off-takers forecast demand exceeding 1GW, yet current infrastructure and lack of readily available access to energy limit the scale of deployments. “Power shortages have been major forces in this industry’s project delays. By integrating Terra Innovatum’s SOLO reactor into our future roadmap, we will look to secure immediate power along with a reliable, behind-the-meter energy source that enables scalable AI, inference, and edge deployments. "Our future 1MWe SOLO pilot program represents a critical first step, with a path to expand to 100 MWe across multiple sites and potentially several megawatt-scale installations throughout the US.” The companies intend the pilot to act as a foundation for potential multi-site expansion, citing accelerating power demand and increasing constraints on conventional grid-connected data centre projects.

CleanArc breaks ground on 900MW Virginia hyperscale campus

CleanArc Data Centers, a developer and operator of hyperscale data centre campuses, has just announced the groundbreaking of its flagship campus in Caroline County, Virginia. Offering 900MW of grid capacity, the new data centre campus will aim to support the growing demand for scalable, sustainability-focused, and hyperscale-ready digital infrastructure. Governor Glenn Youngkin joined local officials, community partners, and CleanArc leadership at the ceremony, celebrating the official start of construction on the project. “Today marks an important milestone for CleanArc Data Centers and Northern Virginia,” says James Trout, founder and CEO of CleanArc Data Centers. “This new, leading-edge campus reflects our commitment to delivering reliable, efficient, and sustainable data centre solutions while supporting the local economy and workforce.” Features of the VA1 campus The VA1 campus is designed to meet growing hyperscale demand, featuring: • Nearly 1GW of grid power — With the first 300MW coming online in Q1 2027, the second 300MW currently projected for 2030, and another 300MW in the 2033–2035 timeframe, the campus seeks to ensure robust redundancy and resilience, supporting both current demand and future scalability. • Sustainability and efficiency focus — The VA1 campus incorporates land conservation initiatives, minimal water usage with closed-loop systems, and design features to reduce noise and light pollution. At VA1, customers have the option to leverage CleanArc’s approach to energy structuring - what it calls “True Additionality” - where clean energy is added onto electric grids in the region where the energy is being consumed. • Design focused on scalability and speed — Using advanced modular data centre design and off-site manufacturing, CleanArc intends to deliver pre-engineered, factory-tested systems to the construction site to reduce complexity, shorten deployment timelines, and help customers capture market opportunities faster. The future potential The project is backed by majority investor Snowhawk and minority investors Nuveen and Townsend Group, who all say they are committed to "driving the next wave of AI and cloud innovation while prioritising responsible growth and community impact." VA1 is expected to generate approximately $13 million (£9.9 million) in new annual tax revenue for Caroline County, equivalent to 17% of the county’s current general fund. The project will also create at least 50 new full-time jobs in the county and hundreds of additional jobs during the project’s construction over the next several years. Additionally, CleanArc is reportedly partnering with local vendors and workforce programs to support economic growth in the county Brian McMullen, Managing Partner and co-founder of Snowhawk Partners, comments, “We are thrilled to support this project, which represents a significant investment in the future of digital infrastructure and underscores our commitment to building advanced, sustainable facilities that empower businesses and communities.” For more from CleanArc Data Centers, click here.

XYZ Reality, Applied Digital partner on 400MW campus

XYZ Reality, a provider of augmented reality (AR) and real-time project controls, is supporting high-performance data centre operator Applied Digital’s delivery of an AI factory in Ellendale, North Dakota. The 400-megawatt (MW) Ellendale AI Factory Campus leverages North Dakota’s cool climate and renewable energy to create a sustainable foundation for advanced computing. XYZ Reality’s construction delivery platform, supported by its team of site engineers, is helping Applied Digital’s project teams track progress in real time, validate installations, and maintain quality standards throughout the build. As part of the partnership, XYZ Reality’s site engineers are embedded on-site to provide verified build progress, installation accuracy, and proactive quality assurance aligned with project plans. Construction of an AI factory David Mitchell, Founder & CEO of XYZ Reality, comments, “Applied Digital is redefining what’s possible in AI infrastructure and it’s exciting to be part of that journey. "From day one, our teams have clicked through a shared drive to push boundaries and use technology differently. Together, we’re proving that transparency, precision, and data-led delivery can transform how these massive projects come to life.” Waleed Zafar, CRO at XYZ Reality, adds, “Working alongside Tier 1 developers like Applied Digital, we’re demonstrating the true impact of data-led construction. "Our platform gives project teams complete visibility and confidence from the ground up - driving precision, accountability, and measurable performance improvements across delivery. "Having already been deployed on more than 2.5GW of data centres, we’re proud to be setting a new standard for how mission-critical infrastructure is built.” For more from XYZ Reality, click here.

Verne, Nscale planning 15MW AI deployment in the Nordics

Verne, a provider of low-carbon high-performance data centres across the Nordics, has agreed a 15MW AI infrastructure deployment with hyperscaler Nscale, expanding high-density, renewable-powered computing capacity across its Icelandic campus. The project centres on liquid-cooled GPU infrastructure and is set to run throughout 2026. The installation will comprise around 4,600 NVIDIA Blackwell Ultra GPUs, with an 85% liquid-cooled and 15% air-cooled configuration designed to maximise efficiency within Verne’s existing facilities. It is one of the region’s largest liquid-cooled GPU projects and is expected to support lower energy use and reduced environmental impact. Iceland’s renewable electricity and natural free-cooling conditions position it as a suitable location for high-density AI workloads. Nscale selected Verne based on its experience in renewable-powered data centres and its ability to support large-scale training and inference environments. Large-scale renewable AI capacity across the region “The pace of change in AI infrastructure is extraordinary," notes Dominic Ward, CEO of Verne. "As the demand for GPU capacity accelerates, availability of clean, renewable power has become as important as raw performance. "Partnering with Nscale, whose expertise is redefining how AI infrastructure is delivered responsibly at scale, demonstrates how the Nordics are fast becoming a strategic hub for sustainable AI growth.” Philippe Sachs, Chief Business Officer and President of EMEA at Nscale, adds, “As compute demand grows, we’ve worked with partners throughout the world and the Nordic region to deliver sustainable solutions to meet that demand. "The Nordics offer a uniquely sustainable foundation: abundant renewable energy and natural cooling. With our existing operations in Norway, we’ve seen first-hand how the region powers low-carbon, sovereign-grade AI infrastructure." David Hogan, Vice President Enterprise at NVIDIA, comments, “The collaboration between Verne and Nscale showcases how NVIDIA technology can enable high-performance AI factories with a focus on energy efficiency and sustainability. "Deployments like this reflect how organisations are scaling the next generation of AI workloads responsibly, using innovative cooling and renewable-powered data centres.” The agreement aligns with Verne’s wider European expansion, which includes new campuses planned in Finland and early-stage development activity in France. The companies state that these projects contribute to the Nordics’ growing role as a centre for renewable-powered AI infrastructure. For more from Verne, click here.