News

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.

Nostrum Group appoints new board member

Nostrum Group, a developer of sustainable data centre infrastructure across Spain and Europe, has appointed Les Dunkley as the newest Independent Member of its Board of Directors, coming as it expands its data centre infrastructure activities through its Nostrum Data Centers division. The appointment arrives as the group increases capacity to meet demand linked to data sovereignty requirements and AI-related workloads. Nostrum Group says the move strengthens its governance as it progresses international expansion plans. Les has more than 35 years’ experience in the data centre sector. He is a founding partner of The TLM Group, which has delivered more than 300 data centres across North America, Latin America, Europe, and the Nordics, with over two gigawatts of installed capacity in 11 countries. Supporting expansion plans Nostrum Group says Les’s background in mission-critical infrastructure design and delivery will support the development of current projects and the evaluation of new markets. Guy Auger, Partner at Andera Partners and fellow Board Member, says, “It is a true privilege for Nostrum Group to integrate a figure of Les Dunkley's calibre into our Board. His knowledge of the global market is unparalleled.” Santiago Rodriguez, Chairman of Nostrum Group, adds, “His arrival coincides with a period of unprecedented growth for Nostrum Data Centers. His expertise will be vital in ensuring our infrastructure not only grows in volume, but leads in innovation and resilience on a global scale.” The company also notes that the appointment reflects a focus on maintaining technical oversight and operational standards. For more from Nostrum Data Centers, click 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.

McLaren appointed for 70MW London data centre phase

UK construction firm McLaren Construction has been appointed to deliver the shell and core of the first 70MW building at global data centre developer and operator Ada Infrastructure’s Docklands campus in London. The project marks Ada Infrastructure’s first European development and forms part of a planned 210MW campus in the Royal Docks. McLaren’s contract also covers enabling infrastructure for the wider site and provision for a future district heating network. The development will comprise three 70MW data centre buildings, alongside a community facility and public realm improvements, including upgraded pedestrian and cycle routes along the River Thames and works to the river wall, including a new flood defence barrier. The buildings will incorporate air and liquid cooling systems designed to operate without water evaporation, as well as low-carbon construction materials and connection points for district heating. The campus is targeting a BREEAM Excellent rating and is designed to support AI and high density workloads. A 210MW campus in London's Royal Docks James Moloney, Head of Ada Infrastructure EMEA, says, “The appointment of McLaren Construction is an important step in bringing this vision to life. "[Its] experience delivering complex data centre and infrastructure projects will be instrumental as we transform this long-vacant site into a sustainable, future-focused campus that also enhances public spaces and contributes to the wider regeneration of the Royal Docks.” McLaren’s supply chain partners include Keltbray for CFA piling, Menard for BMC piling, Gallagher for groundworks and civils, and William Hare for the steel frame. The shell and core contract is scheduled for completion in mid-2028, with the first building expected to be ready for occupation by the end of 2028.

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.

RETN launches Tallinn–Cēsis backbone route

RETN, an independent global network services provider, has launched a new backbone route between Tallinn and Cēsis, designed to strengthen connectivity between Northern and Central Europe. The route was tested shortly before entering service when a fibre break affected the primary backbone path in late 2025. During pre-service testing, engineers redirected live traffic onto the new Tallinn–Cēsis link. More than 40 DWDM (Dense Wavelength Division Multiplexing) backbone channels across multiple European segments were rerouted within 60 minutes. According to the company, latency and jitter remained within normal operating parameters during the transfer. Additional capacity and route diversity The new line forms part of RETN’s wider network expansion strategy, aimed at increasing route and supplier diversity. It provides an additional terrestrial path between Finland, the Nordics, and Central Europe. The deployment includes a new core point of presence at Greenergy Data Centre in Tallinn and adds capacity of up to 40Tbps, with additional DWDM spectrum available for future services and traffic resilience. Tony O’Sullivan, CEO of RETN, says, “Modern backbone networks have to be engineered on the assumption that outages are inevitable. Therefore, the network design should be resilient from the start. "The Tallinn–Cēsis route was built as part of a deliberate resilience strategy, adding diversity at both the route and supplier level so that when a failure occurs, traffic can be shifted quickly without compromising performance.” For more from RETN, click here.

Data Centre Alliance, Clear Decisions launch Regulatory Radar

The Data Centre Alliance (DCA), a UK trade association for the data centre sector, and Clear Decisions, a regulatory compliance and sustainability reporting platform for data centre operators, have launched Regulatory Radar, a regulatory intelligence platform developed specifically for the data centre sector. The platform is designed to provide structured, real-time updates on policy and regulatory developments across the UK and EU, including energy reform, planning policy, sustainability regulation, and AI infrastructure strategy. Regulatory Radar combines AI-based analysis with expert review. The organisations state this approach is intended to ensure updates are interpreted in context and linked to potential operational and commercial impact. Tracking policy change across UK and EU The platform includes forward-looking analysis of planning, energy, and sustainability reform, alongside monitoring of digital and AI policy developments. It also identifies emerging compliance and reporting requirements. According to the DCA and Clear Decisions, the aim is to consolidate regulatory developments into a single source and provide greater visibility of potential risks and strategic considerations for data centre operators and investors. Steve Hone, Chief Executive of the Data Centre Alliance, says, “The regulatory landscape for digital infrastructure is evolving faster than ever. Our sector cannot afford to operate on partial information or delayed insight. "Regulatory Radar combines AI-driven intelligence with expert oversight to give operators and investors the foresight required to anticipate change, shape engagement, and protect long-term value. This collaboration sets a new benchmark for industry intelligence.” Regulatory Radar is available to DCA corporate members and Clear Decisions subscribers. For more from the DCA, 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.

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.