News

New 5G network to spark innovation at German University

A new 5G network backbone for more advanced research initiatives and immersive learning platforms has been deployed at Rosenheim Technical University of Applied Sciences (TH Rosenheim) in Germany, thanks to a collaboration between Slovenia’s Kontron and Mugler SE. Slovenia’s Kontron’s 5G Mobile Private Network (MPN), integrated by network systems integrator and telecommunications solutions supplier, Mugler SE, will provide greater speeds, low latency, and increased capacity for more than 7,500 students at the university’s proto_lab research facility. “At Kontron, we are proud to be part of a project that not only advances cutting-edge research, but also creates invaluable learning opportunities for the next generation of innovators,” says Janez Öri, Slovenia’s Kontron Executive Director of Communications Solutions. “The deployment of our 5G MPN underscores our commitment to empowering industries and academic institutions with reliable, high-performance connectivity solutions that drive transformation and progress. “The collaboration with TH Rosenheim and Mugler SE serves as a blueprint for the future, demonstrating how academia and industry can work together to empower education through technology.” The network will enable a seamless integration of AI algorithms and real-time applications at network edge and in the cloud. This aligns with the core aim of proto_lab's ground-breaking research projects under the guidance of Prof. Dr.-Ing. Noah Klarmann, Research Professor in AI for Technical Systems and Co-Director of proto_lab. It will also equip students with the skills to innovate in the increasingly digitalised world. “A reliable network can offer improved mobility and flexibility to cater for people and assets on the move in ever-changing production and logistics environments,” comments TH Rosenheim proto_lab Initiator, Co-Founder, and Director of the Research and Development Platform Prof. Dr.-Ing. Oliver Kramer. “Individualisation caters for customers increasingly asking for personalised technology solutions to meet their unique needs and is providing them with a critical competitive edge over their rivals. Our 5G campus network also provides the perfect foundation for the implementation and further development of our R&D projects in the proto_lab.” With Slovenia’s Kontron’s 5G MPN, industries and enterprises can improve their operations, thanks to enhanced automation, security, and indoor and outdoor connectivity. The network supports various use cases, including asset tracking, automated robots and AVGs, flexible workspaces, real-time process automation and voice and video communications. “The network deployment is the starting point for our comprehensive four-year partnership, during which time, various industry-relevant use cases will be tested,” adds Mugler SE Director Local Networks, Dr. Markus Dod. “At Mugler SE, we focus on providing reliable and forward-looking telecommunications solutions. This partnership with Kontron and TH Rosenheim highlights how 5G technology, combined with practical integration expertise, can drive meaningful progress. Our aim is to demonstrate how customised 5G networks can effectively support both industry and academia in advancing connectivity and automation.” For more from Kontron, click here.

Siemon releases 2024 ESG Report

Siemon, a network infrastructure specialist, has announced the release of its 2024 Environmental, Social, and Governance (ESG) Report. This latest report highlights the company's commitment to sustainability, social responsibility, and robust governance principles, and outlines the ways it is advancing ESG initiatives within the information communication technology industry. John Siemon, Chief Technology Officer, states, “Our 2024 ESG Report underscores Siemon’s commitment to driving meaningful change across all aspects of our business. Achieving the EcoVadis Gold Rating, investing in state-of-the-art tools for ESG reporting, and being recognised as a Great Place to Work for the second consecutive year reflect the strides we have made. At Siemon, sustainability and ethical business practices are embedded in our DNA. Together with our employees and partners, we are charting a course toward a more sustainable and equitable future.” The 2024 ESG Report outlines several key accomplishments over the past year, including: • 2023 Gold EcoVadis Rating: Siemon’s commitment to sustainability and responsible business practices has been recognised with a gold rating from EcoVadis, placing Siemon in the top 5% of companies globally for its ESG commitment.• Investing in advanced tools like 3E Exchange, Greenly and One Click to enhance reporting accuracy, transparency, and decision-making.• Recognition as a Great Place to Work for the second year in a row, reflecting the workplace culture at Siemon. Building on these achievements, Siemon has continued its focus on reducing environmental impact through innovative product design and sustainable packaging. The report details Siemon’s ongoing alignment with global initiatives, including adherence to the Responsible Business Alliance Code of Conduct, membership in the United Nations Global Compact, and progress toward the Science-Based Targets Initiative (SBTi) commitment to net zero. John Siemon concludes, “As we celebrate these accomplishments, we recognise the importance of staying at the forefront of ESG innovation. This report reflects directly on the level of engagement and commitment from every Siemon employee and supplier to our values and code of conduct. It is through this engagement that we minimise adverse environmental impacts and foster personal and social wellness within our organisation, industries, and communities.” To view Siemon’s 2024 ESG Report and learn more about the company’s initiatives, click here. For more from Siemon, click here.

Tellus delivers key component for collaborative data economy

It has been revealed that the Gaia-X development project, Tellus, has successfully completed its implementation phase. Led by the Internet Exchange operator, DE-CIX, the consortium has developed a prototype interconnection infrastructure that provides fully automatic and virtual access to networks for sensitive, real-time applications across distributed cloud environments. Tellus covers the entire supply chain of interconnection services and integrates offerings from various providers based on the decentralised and distributed data infrastructure of Gaia-X. This makes Tellus a key component for the comprehensive connectivity required by intelligent business models in a collaborative data economy. Delivering networks and services according to application demands In the past, implementing business-critical applications in distributed IT systems required purchasing all necessary components, services, and functions separately from different providers and manually combining them in a time-consuming and costly process - without end-to-end guarantees. Tellus’ open-source software not only automates these processes but also ensures specific connectivity requirements. During the final phase, the project team implemented a controller and service registry which function as central elements of a super-node architecture. The controller coordinates and provisions service offers and orders via application programming interfaces (APIs). The service registry stores and lists all services that the controller can search through, address, and combine. The search process runs via the controller into the registry and the associated graph database, which then delivers suitable solutions. Finally, the controller commissions the interconnection infrastructure to provision network and cloud services to meet the requirements of the respective application, including guaranteed performance and Gaia-X compliance. Deployable prototype: Reliable and dynamic connectivity for data exchange In the implemented proof of concept (PoC) demo, virtual networks and services can be provided via a user-friendly interface to meet the requirements of industrial applications; for example, transmitting hand movements to a robot in real time via a smart glove. The same applies to delivering connectivity for a digital twin from IONOS in a manner required by production plants, to simulate, monitor in real-time, and optimise manufacturing steps. Equally, TRUMPF’s fully automatic laser cutting tools, where reliable and dynamic networks keep systems available and pay-per-part business models productive. Milestone for a secure, sovereign, and collaborative data economy “Since Tellus registers the products of all participants in a standardised way and stores the network nodes in a structured manner in a graph database, interconnection services can be composed end-to-end via a weighted path search,” says Christoph Dietzel, Head of Product & Research at DE-CIX. “With the successful completion of the implementation phase and the proof-of-concept demo, we have not only demonstrated the technical feasibility of our Gaia-X compliant interconnection infrastructure, but have also set an important milestone for the future of secure, sovereign, and collaborative data processing.” For more from DE-CIX, click here.

Industry experts comment on Data Privacy Day

With today (28 January) marking Data Privacy Day - an annual event seeking to raise awareness and promote privacy and data protection best practices - industry experts have marked the occasion by presenting a range of views on the latest trends and challenges that have arisen since last year's occasion. - Dr Ellison Anne Williams, Founder and CEO of Enveil, comments, “Data Privacy Day serves as a crucial reminder to safeguard sensitive information in an era where data dominates. As we navigate an increasingly interconnected world and transformative technologies such as AI grow their foothold in the digital economy, finding ways to protect data privacy and mitigate risk will be essential. “Privacy Enhancing Technologies (PETs) enable, enhance, and preserve data privacy throughout its lifecycle, securing data usage and allowing users to capitalise on the power of AI without sacrificing privacy or security. Organisations that truly prioritise data will incorporate PETs as a foundational, business-enabling tool that will fortify data-driven capabilities and enable data to be leveraged securely across silos and boundaries. “This year’s Data Privacy Day theme is ‘Take control of your data’, but that sentiment should not be limited to our personal data footprint. Businesses need to be proactive in their approach to data protection and commit to a future where PETs are woven into the very fabric of digital strategy. This will empower users to responsibly and securely harness innovative tools, such as AI and Machine Learning, in line with global regulations and compliance requirements.” - Edwin Weijdema, Field CTO EMEA & Cybersecurity Lead at Veeam, adds, “This year, Data Privacy Day seems a little different. With significant cyber security regulations coming into force around the world, most notably NIS2 and DORA, it feels like a lot has changed since we marked this day just 12 months ago. “And it has. We’ve seen corporate accountability given increasing weight when it comes to data resilience thanks to NIS2. It’s no longer a case of passing the buck – responsibility ultimately sits with the C-suite. Simultaneously, data resilience is shifting from a ‘cyber security requirement’ to a tangible business differentiator. At the moment, breaches and ransomware are still a ‘when’, not an ‘if’ - and I don’t see this changing. As C-suites become ever more aware, they’ll be demanding to see evidence of their organisation's data resilience, from their internal teams and any third-party partners. “Data Privacy Day is a good chance to reflect on how much can change in a year. After all, organisations can’t rely on markers like this to nudge them on the importance of data resilience - it needs to be a priority 365 days a year.” - James Blake, VP Global Cyber Resiliency Strategy at Cohesity, comments, "On Data Privacy Day, it's crucial to recognise that focusing solely on compliance will only lead to companies tying themselves in knots reacting to the swarm of active or planned regulatory requirements, as well as data legislation coming into force across multiple national and state jurisdictions. If we look at Germany alone as an example, there are 17 state laws on top of national and EU requirements. The most effective way to ensure data privacy compliance is by building robust and repeatable operational capabilities. This involves programmatically conducting comprehensive data audits to identify, categorise, and secure sensitive information. Implementing robust encryption protocols, including migrating to encryption methods resilient to emerging quantum computing attacks, is essential. Additionally, consider working with technology companies who can offer immutable data that can provide an extra layer of security, ensuring data cannot be altered or deleted, thus protecting against ransomware attacks, data breaches and the unnecessary financial loss accrued because of downtime. Appointing security champions in each business unit to educate their peers on tailored data privacy processes based on data classification levels is an important step. By embedding these practices, compliance with varying regulatory requirements will naturally follow." - Adrianus Warmenhoven, a cyber security expert at NordVPN, comments: “As debates continue over whether data, oil, or land holds the greatest value, in cyber security, the answer is unequivocal: data. Personal data, unlike physical assets, can be copied, stolen, or sold without leaving visible traces, creating significant financial and reputational risks. “Apps are a major culprit, often exposing sensitive information through excessive permissions, missed updates, or unauthorised data sharing. Keeping software current is not just a personal safeguard; it also helps protect your network of contacts from phishing attacks through outdated systems. The good news is that while it may seem like an uphill battle to get on top of your data privacy, it’s never been easier to manage how much you share.” To protect people’s privacy on apps, Adrianus offers these preventive measures: Always download apps from official stores - Unofficial apps may not check how safe it is before it is available to download, increasing the risk of modifications by criminals. Familiarise yourself with the data permissions required by apps - Head to your settings and review and adjust these permissions as necessary, particularly sensitive ones like access to your camera, microphone, storage, location, and contact list. Before downloading any app, read its privacy policy - Understand what information it will track and share with third parties. If the privacy level is unsatisfactory, consider an alternative. You can usually find this in the description on your mobile device’s app store. Limit location access only when using the app - It is difficult to justify why some apps need to know your location at all times, so do not give it to them. Avoid using social media accounts to log in, because doing so can allow unnecessary data exchange. Delete any apps you no longer use - This helps to prevent them from collecting data in the background. For more on data privacy, click here.

Telxius enhances ultra-scalable global carrier ethernet service

Telxius, a global connectivity provider, has upgraded its Global Carrier Ethernet (GCE) service with flexible bandwidth options for businesses in the Americas and Europe. The service enables enterprises and service providers to maximise their investments with more bandwidth flexibility when connecting to key global hubs and cloud service providers. Telxius’ GCE service is supported by its global network spanning over 100,000km of submarine cables and terrestrial backhauls throughout the US, Latin America, and Europe, and is powered by Ciena’s advanced optical pluggables, instead of traditional transponders. It is a highly scalable and flexible service with bandwidth options ranging from 50Mbps to 100Gbps+, designed to meet the needs of demanding markets with ultra-low latency, high availability, and reliability. “At Telxius, we are constantly evolving our network with new and enhanced systems to better support our customers and accelerate digital transformation,” says Mónica Martínez, CMO at Telxius. “We offer enterprises and service providers with the flexible, seamless connectivity options they need to thrive in today’s bandwidth-hungry digital landscape, where user experiences have never been so important.” The solution is MEF 3.0 certified, supported by 14 high-capacity subsea cables: Firmina, Tikal (in progress), Mistral, Tannat, Junior, Dunant, Brusa, Marea, PCCS, SAm-1, EllaLink, Unisur, Est-Tet and Alpal-2, and provides connectivity to multiple points of presence (PoPs) globally. “Telxius continues to take strategic steps to promote the universal need for connectivity in its simplest form,” notes Fernando Capella, Regional Director of CALA South at Ciena. “With Ciena’s advanced optical technology, Telxius has the ability to reach beyond 100Gbps circuits across its existing submarine network, supporting the ever-increasing demands of global enterprises and service providers with ultra-low latency.” Telxius’ global network includes high-capacity fibre-optic submarine cables and terrestrial backhauls together spanning more than 100,000km, almost 100 PoPs in 17 countries, plus 27 data centres. On top of its Ethernet services, Telxius provides a wide range of additional capacity, IP, colocation, and security services for businesses to optimise their connectivity across the globe. For more from Telxius, click here.

Armstrong International acquires humidity controls specialist

Armstrong International EMEA, the continental entity of the global thermal energy innovations provider, Armstrong International, has acquired HygroTemp, a Netherlands-based humidity controls specialist. HygroTemp has worked closely with Armstrong – EMEA’s Humidification Group in the Netherlands since 2007. Together they promote key technologies like the EvaPack, a hygienic and controlled evaporation system manufactured by Armstrong EMEA’s subsidiary, Devatec, located in Normandy, France. HygroTemp’s former owner and Managing Director, Rolf Bosscher, will support Armstrong’s European Humidification team in further developing and promoting the EvaPack technology. He will also continue to be HygroTemp’s Business Development Manager. “Our clients are entering into a transition from steam humidification towards adiabatic humidification and free cooling, thus facilitating decarbonisation thanks to lower evaporation temperature,” says Rossen Ivanov, Managing Director of Armstrong International – EMEA. “HygroTemp has played a key role in introducing this new technology to companies in healthcare, pharmaceutical, electronics and data centre market segments, among others.” Jean-François Frambot, Armstrong International’s Global Director of Humidification and General Manager of Devatec, will take on the role of General Manager at HygroTemp. He comments, “This acquisition strengthens our position in The Netherlands and supports expansion into other European markets, where the demand for hygienic adiabatic humidification and free cooling solutions is growing.” Armstrong says that the acquisition underscores its continued investment in sustainable, innovative technologies that foster thermal energy efficiency, decarbonisation and long-term growth.

Progress Data Cloud platform launched

Progress, a provider of AI-powered digital experiences and infrastructure software, has announced the launch of Progress Data Cloud, a managed Data Platform as a Service designed to simplify enterprise data and artificial intelligence (AI) operations in the cloud. With Progress Data Cloud, customers can accelerate their digital transformation and AI initiatives while reducing operational complexity and IT overhead. As global businesses scale their data operations and embrace AI, a robust cloud data strategy has become the cornerstone of success, enabling organisations to harness the full potential of their data for innovation and growth. Progress Data Cloud meets this critical need by providing a unified, secure and scalable platform to build, manage and deploy data architectures and AI projects without the burden of managing IT infrastructure. “Organisations increasingly recognise that cloud and AI are pivotal to unlocking business value at scale,” says John Ainsworth, GM and EVP, Application and Data Platform, Progress. “Progress Data Cloud empowers companies to achieve this by offering a seamless, end-to-end experience for data and AI operations, removing the barriers of infrastructure complexity while delivering exceptional performance, security and predictability.” Key features and benefits Progress Data Cloud is a Data Platform as a Service that enables managed hosting of feature-complete instances of Progress Semaphore and Progress MarkLogic, with plans to support additional Progress products in the future. Core benefits include: • Simplified operations: Eliminates infrastructure complexity with always-on infrastructure management, monitoring service, continuous security scanning and automated product upgrades.• Cost efficiency: Reduces IT costs and bottlenecks with predictable pricing, resource usage transparency and no egress fees.• Enhanced security: Helps harden security posture with an enterprise-grade security model that is SOC 2 Type 1 compliant.• Scalability and performance: Offers superior availability and reliability, supporting mission-critical business operations, GenAI demands and large-scale analytics.• Streamlined user management: Self-service access controls and tenancy management provide better visibility and customisation. Progress Data Cloud accelerates time to production by offering managed hosting for the Progress MarkLogic Server database and the Progress MarkLogic Data Hub solution with full-feature parity. Customers can benefit from enhanced scalability, security and seamless deployment options. Replacing Semaphore Cloud, Progress Data Cloud provides a next-generation cloud platform with all existing Semaphore functionality plus new features for improved performance, security, reliability, user management and SharePoint Online integration. “As enterprises continue to invest in digital transformation and AI strategies, the need for robust, scalable and secure data platforms becomes increasingly evident,” says Stewart Bond, Vice President, Data Intelligence and Integration Software, IDC. “Progress Data Cloud addresses a critical market need by simplifying data operations and accelerating the development of AI-powered solutions. Its capabilities, from seamless infrastructure management to enterprise-grade security, position it as a compelling choice for organisations looking to unlock the full potential of their data to drive innovation and business value.” Progress Data Cloud is a cloud-based hosting of foundational products that make up the Progress Data Platform portfolio. Progress Data Cloud is now available for existing and new customers of the MarkLogic and Semaphore platforms.

Europe’s largest cloud and AI data centre gets approved

DC01UK’s planning application for a new state-of-the-art data centre has, as of 23 January 2025, been approved by Hertsmere Borough Council’s planning committee. The new facility has been given the green light just one week after the Government launched its AI Opportunities Action Plan. The plan outlines the economic growth opportunities presented by the AI revolution, in which new data centres will play a pivotal role. The new plan sets out long term plans for AI infrastructure needs, mitigates sustainability and includes security considerations for AI infrastructure. Last September, DC01UK’s planning application was widely reported on, when it featured exclusively in the Department of Science, Innovation and Technology’s announcement of the sector-wide reclassification of data centres as Critical National Infrastructure, which significantly bolstered the importance of data centres within the UK. DC01UK, when built, will be Europe’s largest cloud and AI data centre, with up to two million square feet of space, and the location of the data centre brings together the key pillars needed to fulfil the existing cloud shortfall and cater for the large increase in demand expected in future years. This includes a power reservation of 400MVA from National Grid, owing to its proximity to the Elstree (Letchmore Heath) substation and proximity to national and international fibre optic routes as well as nearby Availability Zones in the region. Economic projections estimate the construction value of the project at £3.75bn with a year-round generation of £21.4m in business rates once the data centre is operational. The positive economic impact of the data centre would also see the creation of 500 skilled on-site jobs during the construction phase, 200 permanent, skilled jobs once up and running and a further 13,740 indirect jobs, 10,900 of which would be in the South East. DC01UK is also estimated to generate approximately £1.1 billion per annum GVA (Gross Value Added) indirectly per year. This landscape-led scheme is set in 85 acres of grounds, 54% of which will be retained as green, open space, with a 10% net biodiversity gain. The approved plans also include a suite of local benefits, including the confirmed expansion of the local cycle hire programme, £2m of upgrades for new and existing bus routes, and improvements to cycle paths, footpaths and crossings. There is also a significant financial contribution to local employment skills and opportunities included within the plans. A spokesperson for DC01UK, commenting on their successful planning application, says, “We want to thank Hertsmere Borough Council for their open and pragmatic approach to DC01UK’s plans. They understand our ambition for both the project and the borough. It will bring huge benefits for local people through a stronger local economy, more skilled jobs and better opportunities. Our plans also include a raft of upgrades for local transport, including new and existing bus routes, expansion of the local cycle hire scheme and road improvements. “This approval will also solidify Hertsmere’s status as a leading region in the South East as a tech and media superhub, complementing other established, large technology-driven organisations and film studios in the area. “With planning for this important piece of Critical National Infrastructure now approved, the site stands ready to power the needs of tomorrow bringing a much-welcomed boost to the UK’s digital economy. Our plan will put Hertfordshire at the epicentre of the new data centre revolution, as well as creating £3.75bn for the economy during construction and almost 14,000 indirect jobs once operational.” Minister for Telecoms, Sir Chris Bryant MP, adds, “Data centres are the beating hearts of this modern age, powering the digital infrastructure that we can no longer live without. That is why I am thrilled to see that Hertsmere Council has granted planning permission to one of the largest data centre projects in Europe. “Data centres like this will not only play a pivotal role in our AI Opportunities Action Plan, but drive economic growth through the creation of skilled jobs across the South East.” Cllr Jeremy Newmark, Leader of Hertsmere Borough Council and Chair of the Hertfordshire Growth Board, comments, “This is a momentous development for our borough. Hertsmere has cleared the way to becoming the home of a data centre which will be integral to serving Britain with cutting-edge technology. It’ll be a piece of critical national infrastructure needed for many generations to come. “The project, which is aligned with the council’s vision, is set to deliver hugely significant growth and economic benefits for the area, creating jobs during and after the construction phase, as well as new businesses. This news clearly reinforces Hertsmere’s status as an extremely attractive location for business and industry, with a reputation that is getting even stronger. “The data centre will provide critical synergies for our significant local film and TV sector, with three major sets of studios in Borehamwood. “The Government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan, which was announced earlier this month, shows the impact that the AI revolution is likely to have for many years to come and data centres, such as this, will play a major part. “While outline planning permission has been granted, we will, of course, continue to listen to and engage with residents about these exciting plans as more details are firmed up. As I’ve said before, I’m sure local people will see the massive value this development could bring to our area.” Stephen Beard, Head of Data Centres at Knight Frank who is advising on the project, concludes, “DC01UK is a first of its kind. The largest data centre development in Europe in the world’s second largest market, which is perfectly positioned in its ability to service the ever-increasing cloud demand today whilst accommodating the AI needs of tomorrow. A first and great example of the UK’s shift towards becoming a dominant superpower in cloud, AI and general digital infrastructure.” For more from DC01UK, click here.

Chilean data centres to be powered with renewable energy

Atlas Renewable Energy, an international provider of renewable energy sources, has formed an agreement with ODATA, an Aligned Data Centers company and an expert in data centre construction and operations, to power Chilean data centres with 100% renewable energy. A landmark agreement for the Chile and data centre sector, this partnership continues Atlas' commitment to driving innovation in sustainable energy innovations for the rapidly growing Chilean data centre sector - with the company also supporting ODATA's strategic objectives and sustainability initiatives in the country. The agreement leverages diverse renewable energy sources, including solar power, to deliver 100% I-REC certifiable renewable energy to ODATA, empowering the organisation with the flexibility to pursue sustainable growth and expansion in the region. Ricardo Alário, CEO of ODATA, says, “We are proud to partner with Atlas Renewable Energy to support the proliferation of new technologies in this dynamic market while further advancing our sustainability goals. As a leader in data centre infrastructure for Latin America, we recognise Chile's potential as a key technology hub. With its strategic location and AI growth potential, the country provides an ideal environment for sustainable data centre growth.” Alfredo Solar, Regional Manager of Atlas Renewable Energy for Chile and the Southern Cone, adds, “At Atlas, we want to promote the implementation of innovative and cutting-edge technologies, where this agreement with ODATA represents just that - an important advance for the country, but hand in hand with sustainability. It is essential that this industry continues to develop at an accelerated pace, especially in an interconnected world in which we want to be protagonists, and for this, renewables as a way to ensure the reduction of the environmental impact of technological growth are key.” This agreement also fosters innovation and a sustainable energy transition in Chile to pave the way for an emerging and expanding data centre industry. Driven by the surge of cloud and Artificial Intelligence (AI), the data centre industry has emerged as one of Latin America's fastest-growing sectors. This rapid growth is expected to continue as demand for new technologies accelerates. In Latin America, demand is particularly high in cities such as São Paulo, Brazil, and Santiago, Chile, where capacity is still limited compared to the growing need for digital infrastructure. Likewise, AI has advanced rapidly in Chile, which is considered one of the regional leaders in AI adoption, alongside governance, infrastructure, human talent, research, and development, according to the Latin American Artificial Intelligence Index (ILIA) 2024. Given the significant growth and demand within the data centre sector, Atlas Renewable Energy, with its 8.4 GW of renewable energy projects across Latin America, is well-positioned to partner with data centres in Chile. Leveraging its expertise in solar, and battery storage, Atlas can provide clean energy solutions that support the industry's continued expansion. This partnership will not only drive sustainable energy adoption within the Chilean technology sector, but also contribute to job creation and promote a more sustainable future. For more from ODATA, click here.

Latos to accelerate AI with new edge data centres

Latos today launched a new capability to design, build, and operate a new generation of small-scale 'volumetric' data centres at the network edge. Edge data centres will play a key role in enabling what Accenture has called the 'binary big bang' – the transformation of businesses and public services using AI. Edge-based volumetric data centres enable AI to run faster and safer. Latos volumetric data centres will be built to Tier III standards, comprise as few as 24 racks with unlimited scaling opportunity, and deliver as much as 100kW of energy per rack. This is enough to support the most intensive AI training tasks: training a generative model like ChatGPT needs around 80kW per rack. The new facilities will also reflect the latest net zero building techniques. Constructed from modular components, they will feature high performance power and cooling. Latos plans to design, build, and operate volumetric data centres on behalf of customers across the UK, as well as licensing its designs to partners worldwide. Latos's announcement comes as the UK government reveals plans to expand the UK’s computing capacity 20-fold by 2030 as part of the AI Opportunities Action Plan. It is creating a number of AI Growth Zones (AIGZs) across the UK to help support private investors in data centres and other AI infrastructure. Mike Carlin, CEO of Latos Data Centres, says, “While we applaud the government for its ambition over the UK’s AI infrastructure, a handful of large-scale data centres in far-flung locations won’t be enough. We’ll need more compute facilities closer to end users – and that means the network edge. We’ve designed Latos volumetric data centres specifically to help organisations capitalise on AI. They are state of the art, quick to build, and cost-effective to run.” Latos recently announced it is moving into the construction phase of a 50,400 square metre hyperscale data centre in Cardiff and plans to open a total of 40 data centres across the UK by 2030. For more from Latos, click here.