News

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.

Reliable liquid cooling infrastructure with aquatherm piping

Rising rack densities, AI workloads, and 24/7 availability place new demands on data centre cooling. Conventional air-based concepts increasingly reach their limits when it comes to removing high heat loads efficiently and reliably. aquatherm blue is a PP-RCT piping system designed specifically for liquid cooling circuits in data centres and similar mission-critical environments. It provides the backbone for closed chilled-water loops, direct-to-rack cooling, and integration with heat exchangers or free cooling systems. The system’s corrosion-free material and smooth inner surface support stable flow rates over the long term, helping maintain performance and reduce unplanned interventions. Lightweight components and heat-fusion jointing simplify installation in raised floors, technical rooms, and retrofits. With flexible layouts and a wide range of dimensions and fittings, aquatherm blue enables planners and operators to adapt cooling infrastructure to current and future IT loads. For more information, click here.

Data Centres APPG launches UK growth inquiry

The Data Centres All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) has launched a parliamentary inquiry to examine whether the UK's policy and regulatory framework is supporting the future growth and international competitiveness of the data centre sector. Titled Unlocking the UK's Data Centre Growth Opportunity, the inquiry will gather evidence from across the industry before publishing policy recommendations in December 2026. Written submissions are being invited from data centre operators and developers, investors, technology companies, utilities, combined authorities, regulators, academic institutions, and organisations representing environmental and community interests. Evidence must be submitted by 17:00 on 25 September 2026. Inquiry to examine key growth challenges The inquiry will include three oral evidence sessions between September and November, focusing on energy infrastructure and international competitiveness, investment and planning, and innovation and sustainability. It will also consider skills, workforce development, and the UK's long-term policy direction. Chris Curtis MP, Chair of the Data Centres APPG, comments, "Data centres are fast becoming some of the most significant infrastructure investments in the country and, with the right approach, they can deliver good growth, good jobs, good skills, and lasting economic and social benefit in the communities that host them. "This inquiry is about making sure that as the sector expands, it does so in a way that spreads opportunity across every region of the UK, not just where investment already concentrates. I'd encourage anyone with a stake in this agenda to submit evidence and help us build the case for growth that works for everyone." Alison Griffiths MP, Vice Chair of the Data Centres APPG, adds, "Data centres sit at the intersection of our national security, economic future, and environmental responsibilities. As demand for cloud computing and AI grows, communities are rightly concerned about the land, energy, and water they use. "As Vice Chair of the Data Centres APPG [...] and as a member of the Environmental Audit Committee, I want this inquiry to challenge operators to go beyond business as usual, improve their environmental performance, and demonstrate lasting value to the communities hosting them." David Reed MP, Officer of the Data Centres APPG, says, "The UK has a real opportunity to lead the world in data centre investment, but we should be under no illusion: other markets are competing hard for the same capital, the same skills, and the same technology. "This inquiry will look squarely at how the UK stacks up internationally, what's holding us back, and what reforms are needed to keep Britain at the front of the pack. I want this group to make the practical, evidence-led case for the policy changes that will secure our competitive standing for the next decade." The Rt Hon. Lord Philip Hunt of Kings Heath OBE, Officer of the Data Centres APPG, notes, "We cannot talk about data centre growth without talking honestly about energy, water, and sustainability. The sector's expansion will place real demands on our grid and our natural resources. This inquiry is an opportunity to hear from those developing the solutions, and to ensure sustainability isn't an afterthought but a condition of good growth." For more from the Data Centres APPG, click here.

DE-CIX, MASS-IX expand US Northeast interconnection

Internet exchange (IX) operators DE-CIX and MASS-IX have partnered to provide direct interconnection between New England and New York, enabling networks connected to MASS-IX to access DE-CIX New York through a single-hop connection. The agreement makes MASS-IX an IX Turnkey Connectivity Partner, allowing customers to connect with networks in New York without purchasing separate transport services or remote cross-connects. According to the companies, the partnership is intended to improve latency for networks in the US Northeast whilst also providing access to DE-CIX's wider interconnection ecosystem across North America and internationally. The first network to use the new service is TOWARDEX, which is already exchanging traffic with networks connected to DE-CIX New York. Partnership extends regional connectivity MASS-IX connects more than 70 networks across 12 data centres in the Boston metropolitan area, with close to 3Tbps of connected capacity and peak traffic exceeding 300Gbps. By linking directly to DE-CIX New York, MASS-IX customers gain access to one of the largest interconnection ecosystems in the region, including networks not currently available within New England. Ed d'Agostino, Vice President at DE-CIX North America, comments, "DE-CIX is proud to be partnering MASS-IX, bringing together two neutral and high-performance internet exchanges for the betterment of both parties. "New York represents the lowest-latency location for New England networks to reach non-local networks, and this interconnection makes this possible and easy to implement. "The community in Massachusetts and all of New England will be able to improve performance and latency to content by peering with networks connected to DE-CIX New York. This is an excellent example of how DE-CIX works with neutral IXs to improve the internet in the US and help others better serve their markets." James Jun, Director at MASS-IX, adds, "MASS-IX was founded on a mission to improve performance and reduce the cost of network interconnections throughout Massachusetts. By partnering with DE-CIX, we are providing a new additional turnkey avenue for peering and internet interconnections for ISPs and internet networks throughout New England. "We're excited to partner with DE-CIX to bring leading, world-class peering capabilities and interconnection ecosystems to Massachusetts." DE-CIX New York currently connects more than 260 networks across over 40 data centres and forms part of the company's wider interconnection platform spanning North America, Europe, and South America. For more from DE-CIX, click here.

Greenergy Data Centers secures new investor

Colocation and data hosting facility Greenergy Data Centers has welcomed Tensor Estate as a minority shareholder following an investment in MCF Group Estonia, the company that owns and operates the Baltic data centre. MCF Group Estonia is majority owned by the Three Seas Initiative Investment Fund (3SIIF), which says the investment will provide expansion capital to support the continued growth of the facility in response to increasing demand for AI infrastructure. Greenergy Data Centers was 3SIIF's first digital infrastructure investment and is one of the largest data centres in the Baltic region. Cameron Cook, Senior Investment Director at Amber Infrastructure, investment advisor to 3SIIF, comments, "We welcome Tensor Estate as a new shareholder in MCF Group Estonia. "As the majority shareholder, 3SIIF remains fully committed to supporting the continued development of Greenergy Data Centers. The ongoing expansion of the data centre in response to unprecedented demand from the artificial intelligence market is underway, and we look forward to the full commercialisation of this strategically important digital infrastructure asset." Investment to support future expansion According to the companies, the investment is intended to support Greenergy Data Centers' long-term expansion plans as demand for AI infrastructure continues to grow. Kert Evert, CEO of MCF Group Estonia, says, "We have been developing the infrastructure for years with a long-term perspective. Tensor joining us supports our long-term growth objectives." Miko Niinemäe, Co-founder of Tensor Estate, notes, "Artificial intelligence is fundamentally reshaping digital infrastructure requirements worldwide. Developing projects of this scale takes years and requires close cooperation between infrastructure owners, energy companies, engineering partners, and global technology companies." Valdur Laid, Member of the Management Board of UG Investments, who co-financed the transaction, adds, "MCF [is providing] a solid foundation for its next stage of development. We are committed to supporting that growth as a long-term partner." As part of the transaction, representatives from 3SIIF and Tensor Estate have formed a joint supervisory board as the company's existing management team will continue to oversee day-to-day operations.

Quantum chip concept aims to improve scalability

Researchers at The University of Warwick and Canada's National Research Council (NRC) have proposed a new chip architecture that could address one of the main barriers to scaling quantum computers by enabling communication between qubits over much greater distances. Published in APL Quantum, the research introduces the concept of Quantum Phononic Links (QPLs), which use sound-like vibrations, known as phonons, to transfer quantum information between qubits located across a semiconductor chip. The researchers say the approach could help overcome a limitation of current quantum chips, where qubits typically communicate only with neighbouring qubits, as future large-scale quantum computers are expected to require communication between millions of qubits distributed across an entire chip. Maksym Myronov, Department of Physics at The University of Warwick, says, "One of the key challenges in quantum computing is long-range qubit connectivity. Our work introduces a new concept in which phonons act as a quantum bus, enabling distant qubits to exchange quantum information while remaining fully compatible with semiconductor technology." New material supports long-range qubit communication The proposed architecture is based on compressively strained germanium on silicon (cs-GoS), a material developed at The University of Warwick using epitaxial growth techniques. According to the researchers, qubits within the material are highly sensitive to vibrations travelling through the germanium layer. By controlling these vibrations, quantum information could, in principle, be transferred between qubits positioned either adjacent to one another or separated across semiconductor chips measuring up to 300mm in diameter. The team says this differs from other approaches that rely on microwaves or externally generated surface acoustic waves, which typically require additional hardware and more complex chip designs. Instead, QPLs are integrated directly into the semiconductor material hosting the qubits. The researchers suggest that compatibility with existing semiconductor manufacturing processes could support the development of more scalable quantum processors in the future.