The rapid expansion of data centers poses a significant environmental challenge, with projections indicating they will consume as much electricity as the EU by 2030. This growth, driven by demanding applications like AI, necessitates integrating energy-efficient technologies and adopting sustainable practices. As data centers multiply, addressing their environmental impact becomes crucial for a greener future.
Equinix is making waves in the VoIP and digital infrastructure landscape with a $124 million investment in a new Hong Kong data center, HK6. Positioned to meet VoIP demands and enhance connectivity, this facility integrates seamlessly into Equinix’s existing network, bolstering Hong Kong’s role as a data hub in the Greater Bay Area.
Singtel and KKR are set to invest $1.3 billion for a minority stake in ST Telemedia Global Data Centres (STT GDC), marking the latest significant investment in the data center sector. The companies will initially acquire S$1.75 billion (US$1.3 billion) in redeemable preference shares and warrants, with a plan to invest an additional S$1.24 billion once the warrants are fully exercised.
Microsoft plans to invest €6.7 billion ($7.16 billion) in developing data centers in Aragon, Northeastern Spain. The tech giant has filed for a construction permit to establish its facilities near Zaragoza, according to the local Spanish newspaper El Heraldo.
In a significant move towards bolstering AI infrastructure in Asia, Japan’s KDDI and Sharp have initiated discussions with Super Micro Computer Inc. and Datasection to establish the region’s largest AI data centre. The ambitious project will be situated at the soon-to-be-closed Sharp Sakai Plant in Osaka, marking a strategic repurposing of the unprofitable facility slated to shut down in September.
Virgin Media Business Wholesale, a division of Virgin Media O2, has significantly upgraded the Manchester Equinix MA5 data center with advanced high-capacity fibre routes, enhancing connectivity in Manchester and the broader north of England. This upgrade positions the Manchester MA5 as a crucial node within Virgin Media Business Wholesale’s extensive network, which includes over 160 data centers across the UK.
Black Box, a renowned provider of communication and technology solutions, has announced the inauguration of its state-of-the-art Hyperscale Data Center of Excellence (DCoE) in Inver Grove Heights, Minnesota. This milestone marks over three decades of Black Box’s presence in Minnesota and underlines its commitment to pioneering innovation and excellence in data center services and the broader technology sector.
South Korean telecommunications giant SK Telecom has secured approval from the International Telecommunication Union’s Telecommunication Standardization Sector (ITU-T) for its proposal to standardize technology for AI data centers. This development marks a significant step forward in establishing international norms for AI-related technologies in data centers.
In a collaborative effort, Microsoft and US President Joe Biden have revealed plans to construct a $3.3 billion data center in Mount Pleasant, Wisconsin. This initiative aims to bolster technological infrastructure, fostering the development and deployment of advanced cloud services and AI applications for companies across Wisconsin and its neighboring regions.
Apple is venturing into the realm of artificial intelligence (AI) processing chips for data centers, as reported by the Wall Street Journal. This move positions Apple in direct competition with industry peers like Google and Amazon, which have already heavily invested in AI chip technology.
