News

Schneider Electric launches Easy UPS 3S Pro

Global energy technology company Schneider Electric has launched the Easy UPS 3S Pro, a three-phase uninterruptible power supply (UPS) designed for critical applications in small and medium-sized data centres, as well as for telecommunications, commercial buildings, healthcare facilities, manufacturing, and transport. Available in 10–40kVA capacities, the UPS supports internal and external battery configurations and is now available across IEC markets, including Europe, the Middle East, and Africa (EMEA). The system provides efficiency of more than 96% in double-conversion mode and up to 99% in ECO mode. It has a compact form factor and integrated breakers intended to simplify installation and commissioning. Thierry Chamayou, Vice President, Cloud & Service Providers, EMEA at Schneider Electric, says, “Today’s businesses require resilient and efficient power protection solutions that are simple to deploy and manage. “Easy UPS 3S Pro has been designed to make business continuity easy by combining reliable power protection, simplified installation, and integrated monitoring capabilities in a highly cost-effective package for customers and channel partners alike.” UPS designed for simplified maintenance The Easy UPS 3S Pro includes an Easy Loop test function, allowing UPS performance to be verified without a load bank. Front, side, and rear access is provided for maintenance. Other features include an enhanced human-machine interface, a wide operating temperature range, embedded dust filters, and conformal coating. The UPS can be operated in parallel for capacity expansion or N+1 redundancy, whilst shared battery configurations can be used across multiple units. An embedded Network Management Card enables remote monitoring and management through Schneider Electric's EcoStruxure IT software, while BACnet support allows integration with building management systems. The Secure Network Management Card is certified to IEC 62443-4-2, providing cybersecurity controls for connected infrastructure. For more from Schneider Electric, click here.

CBRE: AI demand drives record Europe data centre signings

Demand for AI-ready data centre capacity is increasing across Europe, with emerging AI infrastructure providers, often referred to as neoclouds, securing record levels of capacity. According to research from global commercial real estate services and investment firm CBRE, signings for AI-focused colocation capacity reached 420MW in the first half of 2026, compared with 89MW during the same period in 2025. Two thirds (66%) of the contracted capacity is expected to be delivered by data centre operators to neoclouds in the Nordic region, where lower-cost renewable power is more readily available. The increase in AI-related capacity signings indicates growing confidence amongst data centre operators and investors in the neocloud sector. CBRE says operators are finding ways to meet funding requirements when contracting with neoclouds, representing a shift from the more cautious investment environment seen two years ago. Operators have also adopted measures such as rental deposits and letters of credit on some transactions to reduce financial risk. Neoclouds secure capacity for AI workloads Andrew Jay, Head of Data Centre Solutions, Europe at CBRE, explains, “Neoclouds have emerged as viable occupiers who are taking capacity at scale in markets typically where lower-cost power is the norm. "It is a sign that many data centre providers are increasingly comfortable with the ambitions of neocloud providers and the financial structures that can be used to satisfy the funders.” Kevin Restivo, Director, European Data Centre Research at CBRE, adds, “The underlying demand for compute is immense. Several neocloud companies have emerged with investment-grade customers, enabling them to secure capacity and support the growing requirements of AI workloads. “As a result, we are seeing unprecedented growth in this segment with deployments in areas in parts of Europe where data centre development isn’t the norm.” For more from CBRE, click here.

Lightpath expands managed bandwidth into Atlanta

Lightpath, a New York-based fibre network and connectivity provider, has entered the Greater Atlanta market, offering managed bandwidth services over its fibre network to data centre and enterprise customers. The company operates 12,100 route miles (19,473 kilometres) of fibre networks across 10 US metropolitan markets and is now providing Wavelength and IP Transit services in Atlanta at speeds from 10Gbps to 800Gbps per wavelength. Aggregate system capacity can scale into multi-terabit configurations, supporting applications including AI workloads, cloud interconnection, and large-scale data transfers. Atlanta has become a growing data centre market, with enterprises and hyperscalers requiring high-capacity optical transport for connectivity between data centres, cloud platforms, and other infrastructure. Lightpath operates a long-haul network hub in Atlanta connected to New York, Philadelphia, Ashburn, Chicago, Dallas, and Miami. Its Atlanta network provides connectivity to 30 data centre campuses using underground fibre infrastructure. Atlanta connects to Lightpath's national network Chris Morley, CEO of Lightpath, says, “Atlanta is one of the fastest-growing data centre markets in the country, and demand for high-capacity managed bandwidth continues to accelerate. “Entering this market connects this growing ecosystem to our national backbone, giving customers a direct path to the intensive capacity that AI and cloud workloads require.” Tim Haverkate, Chief Commercial Officer at Lightpath, adds, “Our customers need optical transport that scales with their workloads. By pairing our long-haul backbone with high-capacity managed Wavelength and IP Transit services, we give Atlanta-area customers a single, trusted path to the bandwidth their businesses demand.” For more from Lightpath, click here.

Enlightra advances AI interconnects with Yokogawa

Enlightra, a Swiss photonics company, is using optical spectrum analysers from Yokogawa, a Japanese manufacturer of industrial measurement, control, and automation systems, to develop multi-channel laser sources for optical interconnects in next-generation AI data centres. The company is developing compact laser sources based on optical frequency comb technology. Its microcomb platform generates multiple precisely spaced optical wavelengths from a single laser, providing an alternative to using separate lasers for each optical communication channel. The systems are designed to generate between eight and 32 comb lines, with channel spacing ranging from 100 to 800GHz and power per line exceeding 7dBm across O-band datacom and C-band telecom wavelengths. Enlightra needs to measure the number of channels, line spacing, power per line, channel-to-channel power variation, and optical noise floor during development. The company characterises thousands of photonic chips during development, making measurement speed and repeatability important. It uses Yokogawa optical spectrum analysers to capture high-resolution measurements across a broad wavelength range. The analysers provide a resolution of 0.02nm and a close-in dynamic range of more than 70dB, allowing engineers to distinguish individual comb lines and measure the noise floor between channels. The measurements are used to assess line spacing, power levels, spectral flatness, and optical signal-to-noise ratio across O-band and C-band systems. Optical measurements for development Fast sweep performance allows Enlightra to maintain measurement throughput when characterising large numbers of photonic chips. The instruments also provide broad wavelength coverage for development and validation work. Measurement quality is also important when Enlightra demonstrates its technology to potential customers at exhibitions and other live demonstrations. The company says portable field instruments previously used for demonstrations did not always reproduce the resolution and low-noise performance available in its laboratory. Limited resolution could affect the displayed shape and peak power of individual comb lines, while making the noise floor more difficult to distinguish. Using Yokogawa optical spectrum analysers allows Enlightra to reproduce the measurement quality of its laboratory equipment during demonstrations. Hanae Zegmout, Lead Photonic Designer at Enlightra, says, “In the frequency comb space, Yokogawa is the gold standard. Choosing its spectrum analysers ensures that our data is immediately trusted and recognised. “Our experience with the two Yokogawa systems in our lab shows that these analysers are robust, hold their calibration well, and offer a seamless user experience.” The instruments are used across Enlightra's research and development work, as well as demonstrations of its comb-laser technology for optical interconnects. To read the full case study, you can click here. Yokogawa is also due to exhibit its optical test and measurement equipment alongside frequency-comb laser technology at ECOC 2026 in Málaga, Spain, from 21–23 September 2026.

atNorth to power Danish food production with surplus heat

atNorth, a Nordic high-density data centre provider, is partnering with investment firm Selected Group to reuse surplus heat from its DEN02 data centre campus in Ølgod, Denmark, to support a large-scale greenhouse development. The project will use heat generated by the data centre to support local food production, with the first phase of the greenhouse development expected to be completed in Q3 2028. The development will be located on land adjacent to the DEN02 site and is intended to support year-round production of fresh fruit and vegetables in Denmark. Most fresh fruit and vegetables sold in Denmark are currently imported, particularly during winter when domestic production is limited by the climate. The project is intended to reduce reliance on imported produce and support a more resilient local food supply. The partnership forms part of atNorth's approach to incorporating heat reuse into data centre developments, connecting digital infrastructure with local agriculture. Surplus heat to support local production The first phase of the greenhouse development intends to use surplus heat from DEN02 to reduce the carbon emissions associated with conventional fossil-fuelled greenhouse heating. The project is also expected to create jobs during construction and ongoing operations, whilst providing additional economic activity in the Ølgod area. The greenhouse development is designed to expand alongside the DEN02 campus, creating an integrated site combining data centre infrastructure with agricultural production. Eyjólfur Magnús Kristinsson, CEO at atNorth, says, “This partnership demonstrates exactly what responsible digital infrastructure should look like. "By collaborating with forward-thinking organisations like Selected Group, we can transform surplus heat into a valuable resource that supports local food production, reduces carbon emissions, and strengthens community resilience. DEN02 is designed to integrate into Ølgod's community, and this project exemplifies this.” Peter Nielsen, CEO of Selected Group, adds, “Every unit of surplus heat should create value. By partnering with atNorth to convert surplus heat into local food production, we are demonstrating how digital infrastructure can strengthen food security while reducing emissions. "Reducing dependence on imported produce strengthens national food resilience, shortens supply chains, and removes the emissions associated with transporting fresh produce across borders. We believe this model can be replicated wherever large-scale data centers are built.” The announcement follows atNorth's partnership with Vestforbrænding to reuse surplus heat from its DEN01 data centre for the local district heating network. atNorth also works with Kesko Corporation in Finland to provide heat for a local shop, and with Stockholm Exergi at its SWE01 campus to supply heat for local homes and businesses. For more from atNorth, click here.

Russelectric details its transfer switches for data centres

US power control manufacturer Russelectric, a Siemens business, has outlined the features of its automatic transfer switches for data centres and other critical facilities. The transfer switches are available in 480VAC configurations with three-cycle and 30-cycle UL-tested closing and withstand ratings under UL 1008. The 30-cycle rating can support selective coordination with overcurrent protection devices, including systems with extended trip delays. This can be used to meet National Electrical Code (NEC) requirements for emergency and legally required standby systems. The switches use preloaded springs and an over-centre mechanism driven by an electric operator to open and close the power contacts. During an open-transition transfer, the contact mechanism remains locked until the over-centre position is reached. The preloaded springs then open the closed contacts and close the open contacts rapidly, with a momentary break between the two operations. The quick-break function provides rapid arc interruption at maximum voltage and current, reducing contact erosion. The design is intended to withstand the mechanical and thermal demands associated with fault durations of up to 30 cycles. Transfer switch configurations Control components and wiring can be replaced without removing the transfer switch from its enclosure. The front-connected wiring uses flame-retardant, 600V SIS-rated switchboard wiring, with connections identified using sleeve-type markers that are visible from the front of the cabinet. Open-transition versions are available for basic transfer applications and loads with high inductive characteristics. They use a quick-break, quick-make transfer mechanism, positive mechanical interlocking, and electrical operators. The switches are available in three- and four-pole configurations, with front-accessible wiring. The 30-cycle withstand rating allows the switches to accommodate a range of short-time overcurrent protection settings, which can simplify coordination studies in high-density electrical systems. Closed-transition versions provide closed-transition retransfer to the preferred power source for testing without interrupting power. If the preferred source is lost, the switches provide high-speed quick-break, quick-make open-transition transfer. These versions are available in two-, three-, and four-pole configurations, with front-accessible wiring. The 30-cycle rating is designed to maintain the transfer switch's operating capability following exposure to fault conditions. The transfer switches can coordinate with a range of circuit breakers, including devices with extended trip delays. This provides flexibility when electrical systems are modified or expanded and can help reduce the potential for disruption to servers, cooling systems, and other critical IT infrastructure. For more from Russelectric, click here.

Airsys urges UK MPs to focus on existing data centres

Airsys, a provider of data centre cooling systems, has called on MPs to consider upgrading existing data centre sites as part of the UK’s approach to expanding AI capacity. The cooling technology company will make the case for improving existing data centre assets in response to an inquiry launched by the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) for Data Centres. Matthew Thompson, UK Managing Director at Airsys, says, “AI Growth Zones are clearly part of the mix, but these will take time to deliver. UK businesses need access to AI now, and better utilisation of existing sites has to be part of the answer.” The inquiry follows the publication of the APPG Insights report in May, which highlighted industry concerns around energy supply and grid access, energy costs, water use, planning, and sustainability. Matthew continues, “While government policy has emphasised construction of new data centres and AI Growth Zones, these will take years to come on stream. Planning and local community agreement is one hurdle, but getting sufficient power onto these sites is the biggest bottleneck for the industry. “The government policy is also heavily focused on regional developments, which has raised concerns amongst some operators about latency issues as inference becomes more important. “In the meantime, businesses need compute capacity now in strategic locations, that don’t compromise on latency.” Airsys is proposing that retrofitting existing sites and developing new capacity on brownfield sites should form part of the UK’s data centre and AI infrastructure agenda. Retrofitting could increase compute capacity Matthew notes, “The Government has correctly identified the UK’s massive potential for economic growth through data centres and AI. But, focusing purely on longer-term projects could mean more immediate opportunities to boost our AI capacity are lost.” Airsys argues that retrofitting legacy sites with liquid cooling could improve the use of available power by reducing cooling requirements and allowing more power to be allocated to computing. Data centre operators commonly use power usage effectiveness (PUE) to measure energy efficiency. Airsys has proposed two additional metrics - power compute effectiveness (PCE) and return on invested power (ROIP) - to assess the utilisation of data centre power and identify underused capacity. The company says deploying liquid cooling at existing sites, alongside developing capacity closer to users, could increase compute density and utilisation whilst reducing energy and water consumption. It also argues that a focus on longer-term regional AI Growth Zones, combined with fragmented local planning and policy, could make it more difficult to improve existing sites. Airsys will submit formal evidence to the inquiry, focusing on policies for edge environments and retrofitting alongside larger-scale data centre developments. Matthew concludes, “Clear, unified direction from central government and regulators is urgently required to ensure UK businesses get access to the capacity they need, where they need it. “We want to ensure the Government, legislators, and regulators are aware of all the tools available to ensure the country is able to fully realise the benefit of all its AI and data centre infrastructure." For more from Airsys, click here.

Cabling Group named Panduit's European Platinum Partner

The Cabling Group has been awarded Platinum Partner status by Panduit, a manufacturer of electrical and network infrastructure hardware, making it the company's only current Platinum Partner in Europe. Panduit's Platinum Partner designation is its highest level of channel recognition and is awarded to organisations based on technical expertise, customer service, and their relationship with the company. The Cabling Group is a UK specialist in network infrastructure and connectivity. The partnership brings together Panduit's infrastructure portfolio and The Cabling Group's technical expertise and customer relationships. Jens Holzhammer (pictured above), Managing Director EMEA at Panduit, comments, "This partnership reflects our shared commitment to innovation, operational excellence, and delivering long-term value to customers. "By combining Panduit's industry-leading infrastructure solutions with The Cabling Group's technical expertise and market reach, we are well positioned to accelerate growth across the network infrastructure business. We are very proud to have them as a Platinum Partner." Graham Smith, Managing Director of The Cabling Group, adds, "We're delighted to have been awarded Panduit Platinum Partner status. This is a fantastic achievement that reflects the hard work, technical expertise, and commitment of our team. "Achieving Platinum status strengthens our partnership with Panduit and enhances our ability to continue delivering high-quality infrastructure solutions for our customers." Partnership expands network infrastructure focus Michael Kemmerling, Business Director Central Europe North at Panduit, notes, "Customers today are looking for trusted partners that can help simplify complexity while supporting scalability, reliability, and performance. "The Cabling Group brings deep expertise and a strong reputation in the market, and we are proud to strengthen our collaboration through this Platinum Partner designation." The companies say the partnership will support customers investing in network infrastructure, with a focus on scalability, reliability, and performance across the UK and wider European market. For more from Panduit, click here.

Wolong's PMDD motors target data centre cooling

Wolong Electric America, a developer of industrial motor and drive technology, has highlighted its permanent magnet direct drive (PMDD) motors for data centre and industrial cooling applications. The motors are manufactured in Monterrey, Mexico, and use a 48-pole design intended to provide a compact alternative to conventional induction motors. The PMDD design removes the need for belts and sheaves by connecting the motor directly to the fan. According to Wolong, this reduces mechanical complexity, maintenance requirements, and potential points of failure. The motors use a rare earth magnet core, which the company says generates stronger magnetic fields than ferrite-based alternatives while allowing for a smaller footprint. A variable frequency drive (VFD) controls the motors, providing variable speed operation and controlled acceleration and deceleration. The motors have a 4:1 turndown ratio, allowing them to maintain torque at lower speeds for applications where cooling demand varies. Direct drive design reduces mechanical load The direct coupling between the motor and fan reduces radial load on bearings and associated mechanical stress by removing the belt drive. Wolong states that the motors are approximately 20% more efficient than conventional induction motors. The design also provides smooth starts without inrush current, which can reduce electrical stress on connected equipment. The motors are intended for use in data centres, refineries, heat exchangers, cooling systems, and other OEM-designed equipment. Wolong's Monterrey manufacturing operation also provides regional manufacturing, service, and customer support for North American customers. The company says the motors are designed with anticipated US Department of Energy efficiency requirements in mind and can be used when upgrading existing equipment or developing new cooling systems. For more from Wolong, click here.

FTTH Council Europe becomes Fibre Council Europe

The FTTH Council Europe, an industry association promoting fibre connectivity across Europe, has rebranded as Fibre Council Europe, marking an expansion of its remit to represent the wider fibre infrastructure ecosystem across Europe. The organisation says the new name reflects its broader focus beyond fibre-to-the-home (FTTH), encompassing fixed connectivity, the fibre infrastructure supporting data centres, mobile networks, and the digital services used by businesses, public institutions, and consumers. The rebrand includes a new visual identity and the tagline: "Powering Europe's digital future". Stefano Fogli, President of Fibre Council Europe, says, "Our new name recognises what our members have known for years: fibre is the essential infrastructure of the present and the future-proof foundation of what comes next, with the potential to evolve to ever-higher speeds. "As Fibre Council Europe, we will continue to bring together the entire fibre community to accelerate deployment, drive take-up, and ensure Europe's digital competitiveness. Our mission expands, and our name now matches its full scope." Conference renamed as organisation broadens remit The Council's annual conference has also been renamed Fibre Horizons. The event, which the organisation describes as Europe's largest gathering of the fibre community, will take place on 17–18 March in Milan, Italy, bringing together operators, vendors, investors, and policymakers. According to the Council, its governance, membership, and core activities will remain unchanged, while its work will expand into areas including data centres and the transition from hybrid fibre-coaxial (HFC) networks to FTTH. Vincent Garnier, Director General of Fibre Council Europe, comments, "This is an evolution, not a departure. Everything our members and partners value about the Council - our advocacy, our research, our community - carries forward under the new name and the expanded scope. What changes is that our identity now reflects the breadth of the fibre ecosystem we represent." The organisation says the transition to the new branding will be phased in over the coming weeks, with its previous branding, email addresses, and web addresses remaining in use during the changeover period. For more from Fibre Council Europe, click here.