News

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.

EXFO launches high fibre count data centre testers

EXFO, a Canadian provider of test, monitoring, and analytics equipment for data centres and telecommunications networks, has introduced a high fibre count data centre testing platform with two new instruments designed for hyperscale and AI infrastructure deployments. The testers will be demonstrated at Data Centre World London 2026 on 4–6 March (Stand B202), alongside a separate showcase at OFC 2026 in Los Angeles on 17–19 March (Booth 523). The release includes two native 24-fibre capable instruments: the FTB-Lite simplex, duplex, and multi-fibre bidirectional certifier, and the PXM/LXM duplex and multi-fibre optical loss test set (OLTS). The equipment is intended to support certification and troubleshooting across large fibre installations in and around data centres. Etienne Gagnon, General Manager Test & Measurement at EXFO, says, “EXFO is trusted by all major hyperscalers to support the accelerated pace of data centre and network builds happening today. “Our high fibre count solution, now reinforced with the only native 24-fibre testers on the market, simplifies testing and enables scaling-up faster to give our customers a competitive advantage as they respond to exponential growth in AI-driven demand.” Testing, certification, and diagnostics The platform supports Tier 1 certification, optical return loss measurement, and Tier 2 troubleshooting across fibre counts up to 24 fibres. Features include automated bidirectional testing, referencing tools, and connector end-face analysis. EXFO says the system is designed to address the increased number of links, connectors, and handling requirements associated with high-density fibre deployments, while reducing the risk of testing errors during large-scale construction projects. For more from EXFO, click here.

New hyperscaler capacity to outpace colocation in Europe

Data centre capacity owned and operated exclusively by hyperscalers, also known as 'self-builds', in Europe is expected to outpace the growth of colocation supply in 2026, according to new research from real estate services company CBRE. The latest research shows that hyperscaler self-build capacity across Europe is expected to reach 4.2GW this year, representing 24% year-on-year growth compared to 2025. This new supply will be delivered across nine European countries, marking the seventeenth consecutive year of double-digit expansion for the segment. Hyperscalers are set to deliver a record level of self-build capacity this year as they expand cloud regions and support increasing volumes of equipment dedicated to artificial intelligence workloads. As of Q4 2025, approximately 60% of Europe's operational hyperscaler self-build capacity is located in Ireland, the Netherlands, Sweden, and Belgium. By comparison, the top 15 European colocation data centre markets are expected to grow 19% year-on-year. Despite slower growth relative to new hyperscaler self-builds, the European colocation segment will remain significantly larger. Strong demand endures CBRE notes that demand for colocation facilities remains robust across Europe. Hyperscalers and neocloud providers continue to rely on developer-operators for rapid delivery, flexible design options, and the ability to secure capacity on shorter timelines. Andrew Jay, Head of Data Centre Solutions, Europe at CBRE, says, "The hyperscaler self-build segment is growing as hyperscalers are looking to build facilities at scale and control more of the supply chain, the design of the facility, and ensure they have the power necessary." Kevin Restivo, Director, European Data Centre Research at CBRE, adds, "Traditionally, the fastest route to market for hyperscalers in need of data centre capacity delivered are the developer-operators. We expect this to remain true for the foreseeable future. Hyperscalers will, in some instances, build their own facilities though." For more from CBRE, 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.

Power supply options for data centres

In this exclusive article for DCNN, Tania Arora and James Wyatt, Partners at Baker McKenzie (London), examine the evolving landscape of data centre power supply, highlighting why a tailored approach - blending grid connections, on-site generation, microgrids, and emerging technologies such as SMRs and battery energy storage - is increasingly essential for resilience, sustainability, and commercial optimisation: No universal solution Data centres presently require considerable energy resources, with projections indicating a marked increase in their consumption in the coming years. Securing a steady, sufficient, reliable, and scalable power supply is crucial for the financing, operational success, and long-term resilience of any data centre. A universal strategy does not exist for procuring power for data centres; each project requires a tailored approach. The market offers a wide range of power supply options and these are frequently combined to address the specific requirements of each project. The exact power procurement strategy for each project is determined by several factors, most notably the location of the data centre, local regulatory frameworks, its current and future operational needs, and the strategy of the developer (particularly considering other assets / other electricity supply arrangements they own). This article considers power procurement options available in the market and how these could be combined to achieve a successful power supply strategy. The key power supply options available at present include grid power, on-site or adjacent-site power generation, and microgrids (renewable or conventional), supported by backup generators, battery energy storage systems (BESS), and fuel cells. On-site or adjacent-site nuclear power is increasingly viewed as a panacea solution for data centre energy needs, although there are still considerable political, technological, and risk-allocation problems to solve. Data centres usually connect to public electricity grids, but most grids were not designed for their high load. Upgrades and expansions are often needed, which can be time-consuming and expensive. Sometimes, users must pay for these improvements, and further upgrades may be required if the data centre expands. Furthermore, securing a grid connection is rarely guaranteed; capacity reservations may be needed and are often subject to legal conditions. In some cases, installing on-site generation and microgrids can help address grid challenges. This could involve constructing solar and wind power plants (supported by BESS), gas-fired power stations, and/or combined heat and power (CHP) units adjacent to the data centre and supplying electricity directly without relying on the public grid. Furthermore, fuel cell and linear generator systems - as well as small modular reactors (SMRs) - are emerging as low-carbon, scalable power solutions for data centres. While the ongoing costs for self-generated energy are generally much lower, building such a dedicated energy infrastructure typically entails significantly higher upfront costs compared to connecting to the public grid. Furthermore, on-site projects are often constrained by space and planning restrictions, particularly in urban or suburban markets where demand is highest. Sustainable options Sustainability is a key consideration for a number of data centre market participants. Even if on-site wind or solar energy is economically viable for a project, these renewables alone cannot provide a stable base load due to their intermittency. To ensure base-load coverage, additional infrastructure such as energy storage systems, fuel cells, and conventional backup generators are required. SMRs and advanced nuclear technologies are emerging as promising solutions for the rising power needs of data centres. They offer reliable, consistent base-load power, load-following capability, scalable output, low carbon emissions, and a small physical footprint. They can operate independently of the grid or alongside renewables and are designed to be more cost-effective and quicker to deploy than traditional large-scale nuclear plants due to modular construction and established supply chains. SMRs are becoming a tangible reality for data centres. For example, the UK Government recently provided a considerable amount of support for SMRs for data centres through planning reforms, regulatory acceleration, funding, and explicit policy direction encouraging SMR–data‑centre colocation. However, SMRs face challenges: they are largely unproven and most jurisdictions still lack regulatory frameworks tailored to their unique characteristics. Key considerations for deploying SMRs include understanding local nuclear regulations, licensing and approval processes, decommissioning requirements, nuclear waste management, fuel supply security, and site suitability. Addressing these legal and regulatory issues is essential before SMRs can be widely adopted for data centres. BESS has become a key part of data centre power strategies, serving not only as resilience infrastructure but also helping to unlock commercial opportunities. It provides load shifting and peak shaving, thus reducing exposure to volatile wholesale prices and network charges by charging during low-cost or high-renewable periods and discharging power at peak demand. BESS also delivers instant backup power during outages and enables participation in grid services for additional revenue. Key issues include permitting and safety (especially for large-scale systems near nuclear or high-voltage facilities), complex grid connection agreements, and risk allocation where BESS is delivered via third-party energy-as-a-service contracts. Final considerations The near to mid-term future of data centre power lies in combined strategies. Every option in the combination presents its own distinct legal and commercial considerations. Consequently, as strategies become more complex, market participants should anticipate navigating a greater number of legal issues within the context of rapidly evolving regulatory frameworks.

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.

Data Centre Alliance appoints new advisory board

The Data Centre Alliance (DCA), the UK trade association for the data centre sector, has appointed a new Advisory Board to lead its expanded Advisory Council. Liam Round has been named Chair, alongside board members Jonathon Freegard, Scott Cunningham, Astrid Wynne, Phil Beale, and John Booth. The appointments reflect experience across different areas of the data centre industry. The board will oversee the Advisory Council’s work in identifying key industry priorities and developing initiatives aimed at informing end users, policymakers, media, and the wider public. Focus on policy, energy, and standards Previous DCA initiatives include: • The DCA UK Data Centre Legislation Horizon Scan report• The Drowning in Data report on data centre water usage• The Data Centre Anti Contamination, Filtration, and Cleaning guide• The Data Centre Planning Policy, Sustainability, and Resilience Initiative guide• EU Code of Conduct for data centres energy efficiency updates• DCA data centre standards whitepapers Liam Round, Managing Director of Teksan UK and now Chair of the Advisory Council at the DCA, comments, “It is an honour to take on the role of Chair of the Advisory Board and Council at The Data Centre Alliance at such an important time for our sector. "Digital infrastructure underpins economic growth, national resilience, and AI development. I look forward to working with the DCA’s leadership and Partners to provide clear guidance, strong governance, and strategic focus as the industry navigates rapid change.” Over the next year, the Advisory Board and Council says it will focus on planning reform, energy market integration, grid access, sustainability, water resilience, AI infrastructure readiness, and industry standards development.

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.

Carrier launches CRAH for data centres

Carrier, a manufacturer of HVAC, refrigeration, and fire and security equipment, has introduced the AiroVision 39CV Computer Room Air Handler (CRAH), expanding its QuantumLeap portfolio with a precision cooling system designed for medium- to large-scale data centre environments. Developed and manufactured in Europe, the AiroVision 39CV is intended to support energy efficiency, reliability, and shorter lead times, while meeting EU regulatory requirements. The unit offers a cooling capacity from 20kW to 250kW and is designed to operate with elevated chilled water temperatures. Carrier states that this approach can improve energy performance and contribute to lower power usage effectiveness (PUE) by enabling more efficient chiller operation and supporting free cooling strategies. Factory-integrated design for simplified deployment The AiroVision 39CV features a built-in controller for real-time monitoring, adaptive operation, and integration with building management systems. The control platform can be configured to suit specific operational requirements. All components are factory-integrated to reduce on-site installation and commissioning work. Additional features, including an auto transfer switch and ultra-capacitors, are intended to support service continuity in critical environments. Michel Grabon, EMEA Marketing and Market Verticals Director at Carrier, says, “The 39CV is a strategic addition to our QuantumLeap Solutions portfolio, designed to help data centre operators address today’s most pressing challenges: increasing thermal loads from higher computing densities, the need to reduce energy consumption to meet sustainability targets, and the pressure to deploy solutions quickly and efficiently. "With its high-efficiency design, intelligent control system, and factory-integrated components, the 39CV helps operators to improve energy performance, optimise installation time, and build scalable infrastructures with confidence.” For more from Carrier, click here.