Events

Data Centre World 2026 has almost arrived

Technology leaders are once again preparing to gather in London for Data Centre World, which the organisers describe as “the event dedicated to the foundations that make data centres work in the real world.” In this article, DCNN presents a comprehensive overview of what lies ahead at Data Centre World, taking place at Excel London on 4–5 March 2026. This year’s show is set to cover a myriad of critical topics which are affecting the industry today. The key conference themes for 2026 are as follows: Redefining data centres: Sustainability, resiliency, and tech innovation As AI, cloud, and edge computing accelerate demand, data centres must become smarter, greener, and more resilient. Explore how net zero strategies, automation, and next-generation infrastructure are helping the industry respond to climate pressure, energy constraints, and geopolitical risk. Cultivating a people-focused data centre workforce culture A skilled, inclusive, and resilient workforce is critical to data centre success. Discover how organisations are building human-centric cultures that attract talent, support growth, and enable long-term sustainability. Hyperscale to sovereign: Exploring regulation in the data centre era Regulatory pressure now extends beyond energy and sustainability into digital sovereignty and localisation. Learn how operators are adapting to evolving rules around data residency, cross-border transfers, and national compliance requirements. AI-driven innovations in data centre design for efficiency AI is transforming data centre design and operations. Explore advances in thermal management, power optimisation, and high-density layouts, alongside intelligent resource management, predictive maintenance, and AI-assisted capacity planning. Protecting the data centre: Security in the modern world As data centres become more critical and complex, security is paramount. Examine how operators are responding to cyber, physical, and regulatory threats through AI-driven detection, zero-trust architectures, and advanced access controls. Circular economy and waste management Circular economy principles are becoming essential to sustainable operations. Learn how operators are reducing waste, extending asset lifecycles, and building more regenerative infrastructure through reuse, refurbishment, and smarter design. Atop the conferences, attendees will also have the chance to visit and explore a vast array of exhibitor stands. For more about Data Centre World, click here and here.

Schneider to demonstrate power and cooling at DCW 2026

In this article for DCNN, Matthew Baynes, Vice President, Secure Power & Data Centres, UK & Ireland at Schneider Electric, details how the company will demonstrate its integrated power, cooling, and digital capabilities at Data Centre World 2026: Building for AI at scale – are you ready? As the global competition for AI leadership intensifies, the UK is stepping up in its mission to become an ‘AI Maker’. As demand increases, so too does the need for the secure, scalable, and sustainable infrastructure to accommodate it. The UK ranks among the world’s top three data centre markets, and the industry sits at the core of the country’s AI ambitions, with the Government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan now designating data centres as critical national infrastructure (CNI). Data Centre World in London is the industry’s largest gathering of professionals and end-users. During the event, as the UK’s energy technology provider, Schneider Electric will explore how we can scale AI infrastructure. The impact of investment and AI Growth Zones As previously mentioned, with the Government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan being backed by investment from big tech, data centres are now considered as critical national infrastructure. This has opened the gates for large-scale innovation, investment, and opportunities. From Stargate UK to Google’s £5 billion commitment to AI infrastructure, announcements by major global technology companies have all strengthened the UK’s leadership position. Exploring the UK’s position in the data centre market, on 4 March at 11:05am, I will discuss the importance of scaling AI responsibly in the UK, prioritising energy efficiency and innovation in data centres. Liquid cooling: Meeting the challenge of density As rack densities soar to support AI workloads, the challenge is no longer whether to adopt liquid cooling, but how to deploy if effectively at scale. On 4 March, 12:05–13:15pm, Andrew Whitmore, Vice President of Sales at Motivair by Schneider Electric, will chair a panel discussion on tackling liquid cooling challenges in data centres, and will unpack the innovations, risks, and realities behind the technology. During the session, Andrew will be joined by Karl Harvard, Chief Commercial Officer at Nscale; Ian Francis, Global Design and Engineering SME at Digital Realty; and Petrina Steele, Business Development Senior Director at Equinix. How agentic AI transforms data centre services While AI is driving demand for data centre capacity, it is also transforming how these facilities are operated and maintained. On 5 March, 11:15–11:45am, Natasha Nelson, Chief Technology Officer at Schneider Electric’s Services business, will deliver a keynote exploring how agentic AI can transform data centre services at scale. During the session, Natasha will explore the transformative role of agentic AI and Augmented Operations in delivering highly skilled technical services – both remotely and on site – for electro-sensitive environments such as large-scale data centres. She will unpack how AI-powered decision-making and human expertise can create a new era of service excellence, where every intervention is smarter, faster, and more sustainable. Building resilient, end-to-end, AI-ready data centres At Stand D140, Schneider Electric will showcase its complete, end-to-end, AI-ready data centre portfolio, enabling scalable, resilient, and sustainable AI infrastructure. Our solutions cover: • Integrated power train — including Ringmaster AirSeT switchgear, Galaxy UPS, iLine busbar, and 800VDC sidecar • Hybrid cooling solutions — including Motivair by Schneider Electric’s liquid cooling and coolant distribution units (CDUs) • All-in-one modular infrastructure — AI POD (EcoStruxure Pod Data Centres) and Modular Data Centres • Lifecycle Services — to support compliant and optimised operations Our integrated power chain begins with the Ringmaster AirSet compact switchgear, directing high-voltage power and preventing overloads. The Galaxy UPS systems provide resilient backup, keeping AI servers running continuously. Inside facilities, the iLine busbar replaces cable complexity with overhead power bars, while the 800VDC sidecar delivers direct current to racks, avoiding conversion losses. Lifecycle services orchestrate this seamless system – from the Galaxy UPS enabling rapid repair to essential cabling controlling power safely. This de-risks expansion, ensures UK regulatory compliance, and delivers efficient, long-term AI infrastructure. Together, these solutions demonstrate a fully integrated, AI-ready architecture, showcased digitally and in physical format at the stand. Experts from Secure Power, Digital Energy, and Power Products divisions will also be present to explore how these technologies enable UK organisations to lead the AI race. Software and digital services Our DCIM software solutions and services safeguard AI operations through monitoring, optimisation, and digital modelling. These include: • EcoStruxure Data Centre Expert• AVEVA and ETAP Digital Twins• EcoStruxure Building Operation• Power Monitoring Expert The software pods demonstrate comprehensive digital solutions for monitoring, controlling, and optimising infrastructure. EcoStruxure Data Centre Expert provides real-time power and cooling visibility, while Aveva and ETAP Digital Twins enable simulation, design, and automation of critical systems. EcoStruxure Building Operation facilitates secure data exchange from third-party energy, HVAC, fire safety, and security systems. Power Monitoring Expert (PME) delivers electrical system insights for improved performance and sustainability, connecting smart devices across electrical systems and integrating with process controls for real-time monitoring. Join us at Stand D140 during Data Centre World in London to be part of the conversation on scaling sustainable, efficient, and resilient data centres together. For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

Mayflex to highlight Elevate at Data Centre World 2026

Mayflex, a UK-based distributor of converged IP infrastructure, networking, and electronic security products, will present updates to its Elevate infrastructure portfolio at Data Centre World London 2026, taking place on 4–5 March at ExCeL London. The company will exhibit on Stand B180. Launched at the 2025 event, Elevate brings together fibre connectivity, racks, aisle containment, power distribution, and rack-level security within a single infrastructure platform. Mayflex says the portfolio has evolved over the past 12 months in response to increasing density and performance requirements in data centre environments. Andrew Percival, Managing Director at Mayflex, says, “From concept, our ambition with Elevate was to continually move the offer forwards. "We aim to build an integrated set of solutions that responds to the real pressures facing data centre operators: densification, thermal performance, deployment speed, and operational clarity. The progress made over the last 12 months reflects that focus.” New high-density additions At the exhibition, Mayflex will introduce new very small form factor (VSFF) pre-connectorised fibre systems supporting up to 3,456 fibres in 1U, alongside high-density optical distribution frames with pre-connectorised trays and cables. Additional launches include high-density power distribution strips and intelligent rack locking systems. Updates to the DCR Rack Series and cold aisle containment systems will also be demonstrated. Visitors to Stand B180 can view the portfolio and speak with the team during the event. For more from Mayflex, click here.

Daikin to showcase data centre solutions at DCW 2026

Daikin, a Japanese manufacturer of air conditioning and refrigeration systems, will participate in Data Centre World London 2026, where it will exhibit at Stand B140. The company says it will use the event to demonstrate how advanced cooling technologies and specialist expertise can support the sustainable growth of Europe’s rapidly expanding data centre sector. Building on its strong market track record, Daikin Applied will showcase solutions designed to meet the evolving needs of colocation providers and hyperscalers. Visitors to the stand will be able to engage directly with Daikin’s data centre specialists and explore how the company supports projects from early design and engineering through to commissioning, operation and long-term service. Data Centre World London is a key meeting point for operators and suppliers seeking practical, future-proof approaches to balancing performance, reliability, and sustainability. Daikin’s presence underscores its commitment to helping customers meet rising capacity demands, tighter energy efficiency targets, and increasingly complex data centre designs. A trusted partner for mission-critical environments At the show, Daikin will present an overview of its data centre portfolio, covering cooling solutions for a wide range of applications and design philosophies. A key feature of the stand will be a mock-up of the new Pro-W Slim fan array unit, designed to deliver high efficiency, scalability, and operational flexibility. The unit supports modular design concepts and is optimised for reliability, ease of maintenance, and precise airflow control. The company will also showcase its new coolant distribution unit (CDU), designed to support liquid-cooled architectures and high-density applications. Alongside these innovations, Daikin’s portfolio includes air- and water-cooled chillers, heat pumps, air handling units, CRAH systems, and integrated control solutions. Combined with specialist engineering support and lifecycle services, the company delivers tailored, end-to-end cooling solutions for data centres of all sizes and complexity levels. For more from Daikin, click here.

How Elevate is redefining data centre infrastructure

It feels like yesterday that Elevate – Future Faster launched at Data Centre World 2025. Since then, the team have been working closely with operators, integrators, and partners to understand where white space designs struggle under pressure, namely: how density is increasing, how airflow and power must evolve, and how programmes need to accelerate without increasing operational risk. Now, as Elevate returns for year two at Data Centre World on Stand B180, it isn’t “new for the sake of new”; it’s a platform that closes the gap between what modern data centres demand and what infrastructure can realistically deliver – more density, more control, and more scale, without complexity creeping in through the back door. Elevate was built as an integrated ecosystem: fibre, racks, aisle containment, power, and security engineered to work together with clean installation, clear labelling, and predictable operation. In its second year, that ecosystem has expanded significantly, with wider choices for high density fibre, more robust airflow strategies, and smarter power and physical security options designed to make scaling easier. Addressing today’s data centre challenges Modern data centres face a familiar set of pressures: rising density, faster change cycles, and tighter operational guardrails. Elevate is designed to help teams keep pace. Densification is no longer optional. Port counts rise, but physical space doesn’t. Elevate’s high-density fibre solutions – VSFF, MPO, and modular ODF architectures – deliver more ports in the same rack unit space while maintaining front access, bend radius control, and clear labelling. The goal isn’t only to fit more, but to manage more. Thermal performance is another sticking point. As loads increase, improvised airflow tactics break down. Elevate’s hot and cold aisle containment is engineered to integrate properly with racks, cable pathways, and power routes. The result is stable airflow separation and higher cooling efficiency across mixed hardware environments. Power, too, needs to evolve. It is no longer enough to energise a rack; operators need visibility, telemetry, and control. Elevate’s high-density intelligent power provides meaningful insight – usage, load, switching – so day two operations become more predictable and less prone to surprises. Deployment speed matters as much as performance. To avoid delays and rework, Elevate prioritises pre-connectorised designs and engineered pathways. Pre-configured fibre assemblies and pre-populated ODF trays reduce on site variability, shorten install windows, and improve “first time right” outcomes. Moreover, as estates grow, clarity becomes critical. Structured labelling, clean patch presentation, and tray level guidance help maintain consistency long after the initial build and far beyond the day one installation. Fast, reliable availability rounds out the approach. Predictable supply chains and standardised configurations help teams maintain design intent and execute programmes without interruption. Advancing the Elevate Platform for 2026 This year, Elevate introduces a number of key additions designed to meet the demands of increasingly dense, increasingly dynamic data centres: 1. VSFF ultra high density pre-connectorised fibre optics deliver far higher port density within standard 1U and 2U panel formats, reducing splicing, test cycles, and deployment time. 2. Hot aisle containment supports facilities optimised around hot air capture and reuse, improving thermal stability as densities rise. 3. High density intelligent power adds the visibility and control required to balance loads, automate switching, and support safe change windows. 4. Intelligent rack locking delivers scalable, auditable access control. 5. High-density ODFs with pre-connectorised trays provide structured, repeatable patching fields with predictable routing and clear documentation. Alongside these additions, the DCR Rack Series, cold aisle containment, and MPO high-density, pre-connectorised solutions return with refinements that make dense builds easier to construct, cool, and maintain. These aren’t isolated features; they’re responses to real operator pressures, helping teams design once, scale confidently, and maintain operational clarity. Experience the Elevate platform at DCW London The most reliable way to evaluate infrastructure is to see the engineering up close. At DCW London, Stand B180, you can explore ODF trays, routing paths, containment interfaces, intelligent power options, and rack level access control, as well as discuss how Elevate can support your growth, densification, or refresh plans for 2026. And while you’re there, enter Elevate’s on-stand competition for a chance to win a pair of Apple AirPods. For more from Elevate, click here.

Geberit to highlight piping systems at DCW 2026

Swiss manufacturer Geberit will present two supply systems for data centre environments - the Geberit Mapress Stainless Steel and Geberit FlowFit - at Data Centre World 2026 in London, 4–5 March 2026. Geberit Mapress Stainless Steel is designed for long-term operation in demanding conditions. The material’s molybdenum content provides corrosion resistance intended to support continuous operation in critical facilities where downtime must be avoided. Geberit FlowFit focuses on installation efficiency. Its lateral pressing method covers pipe dimensions from d16 to d75 using two pressing jaws, reducing tool changes during installation. Inspection windows and pressing indicators allow installers to verify connections, while fitting geometry maintains flow performance and enables smaller pipe diameters to be used. The company says the two systems are intended to support reliability and consistent performance across modern data centre infrastructure.

Carrier to showcase AI cooling at DCW London 2026

Carrier, a manufacturer of HVAC, refrigeration, and fire and security equipment, will present its QuantumLeap portfolio at Data Centre World London 2026, taking place on 4–5 March. As a Platinum Sponsor, the company will host a panel discussion, a keynote session, and a solo presentation focused on cooling, building management, and lifecycle services for AI-driven data centres. Carrier, part of Carrier Global Corporation, will outline how increasing AI workloads are affecting thermal density and energy consumption across data centre environments. The company says the rapid growth of AI is creating pressure to manage higher heat loads while reducing overall energy use. Its QuantumLeap portfolio includes liquid cooling systems and high-efficiency chillers designed to support next-generation processors and higher rack densities. Integrated management and lifecycle focus Carrier will also highlight its building automation and data centre infrastructure management capabilities. By linking cooling, power, and IT systems through building automation systems and DCIM platforms, the company aims to give operators clearer operational oversight and improved energy control. In addition, Carrier will address lifecycle management, including waste heat reuse and grid participation, as part of broader sustainability strategies within AI data centres. Bertrand Rotagnon, Executive Director Commercial Business Line & Data Centres Europe, says, “Data centres can’t choose between growth, resilience, and energy performance; they need all three. "At DCW London 2026, we’re showcasing Carrier QuantumLeap solutions to help operators simplify decisions, improve efficiency, and move towards measurable energy contribution.” Carrier will be located at Stand D70. The company’s panel discussion takes place at 12:20 on Wednesday, 4 March, with a solo presentation at 15:55 on the same day and a keynote at 14:50 on Thursday, 5 March. For more from Carrier, click here.

AFL: Why data centre leaders are heading to Stand C110

AFL, a manufacturer of fibre optic cables and connectivity equipment, will be attending this year's Data Centre World in London, 4–5 March 2026, exhibiting on Stand C110. In this article, the company tells you about what you can expect: Your AI clusters are hungry for bandwidth. GPU-to-GPU latency is make or break, and you’re being asked to scale yesterday, all while maintaining uptime, managing density, and staying within budget. AFL understands. It has engineered solutions specifically for these problems. What you’ll experience at Stand C110: • Hands-on demos• Industry-first technology• Solutions for your biggest bottlenecks• Modular white space infrastructure you can deploy rapidly• AI-GPU connectivity optimised for ultra-low latency compute fabrics• High-density DCI solutions that maximise available space in cable ducts• Pre-terminated, plug-and-play modules with full traceability to help you deploy faster• Fujikura’s Multi-Core, Hollow-Core, and Mass-Fusion splicers in action – the precision tools that research labs and hyperscalers trust for next-generation fibre deployment• Small-form-factor assemblies – reduce diameter, increase density, maximise airflow and cable pathways• Test with confidence – advanced inspection tools that validate performance before the first packet flows Why AFL for hyperscale data centres? • Globally available — consistent supply chain, wherever you build• Proven reliability — supporting the world’s largest hyperscale networks• Modular and scalable — grow your infrastructure without forklift upgrades• Built for AI workloads — engineered for the bandwidth and latency demands of dense GPU clusters Who should visit the stand? • Network engineers deploying or upgrading DCI links• Data centre architects planning next-generation AI infrastructure• Infrastructure leaders evaluating fibre solutions for hyperscale growth• Operations teams seeking faster commissioning and maintenance workflows Ready to enhance hyperscale efficiency? Bring your toughest connectivity challenges to Stand C110 and see how AFL’s team is already solving the real-world problems you face with innovative solutions ready for immediate global deployment. Find out how its optical fibre experts can help you scale seamlessly across growing hyperscale deployments for AI and cloud. For more from AFL, click here.

ERIKS to showcase valves expertise at Data Centre World 2026

ERIKS UK & I, which has recently become a Rubix company, is exhibiting on Stand F6 at Data Centre World in London (4–5 March 2026), highlighting its experience in supporting designers and contractors working on increasingly complex cooling infrastructure. The company will showcase its valve expertise in data centre cooling applications, as AI-driven workloads place increasing demands on chilled water systems. The rapid adoption of AI workloads is reshaping data centre design, with higher rack densities and new cooling architectures placing greater strain on mechanical systems. Chilled water networks are now required to operate at higher flow rates, deliver tighter control, and perform reliably in more demanding operating conditions, increasing the importance of valve selection, consistency, and long-term performance. ERIKS supports data centre HVAC and chilled water applications with a broad portfolio of valve technologies covering the core functions commonly specified in cooling systems, including isolation, regulation, and protection. The offering spans a wide range of sizes, materials and actuation options, enabling engineers to standardise valve selection while accommodating differences in system design, environmental exposure, and future expansion plans. Meeting changing data centre design Jonny Herbert, Business Development Manager for Data Centres at ERIKS UK & I, says, “AI is accelerating the pace of change in data centre design, particularly on the cooling side. "While valves are often treated as commodity components, their role in controlling and protecting chilled water systems is critical. Our approach is shaped by years of experience in the data centre sector, prioritising robustness, material choice, and practical design.” ERIKS says it encourages earlier engagement on valve selection during the design and specification stages of data centre projects. Factors such as water quality, environmental exposure, coating requirements, and access for operation and maintenance can all influence long-term system reliability. Addressing these considerations upfront can help reduce the risk of premature failure, rework, or delays during installation. Jonny continues, “As data centre projects become larger, more complex, and more tightly integrated with digital infrastructure, Data Centre World has become an important meeting point for the engineers, consultants, and contractors shaping the next generation of facilities. Our presence reflects both the maturity of our involvement in the sector and the growing need for practical, experience-led support as cooling requirements continue to evolve.” Visit ERIKS UK & I on stand F6 at Data Centre World London (4–5 March 2026) to discuss valve requirements for data centre cooling and chilled water applications. Learn more, by visiting the company's website.

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.