Datacentered - Issue 06

ISSUE 06

BACK BACK & & FORTH FORTH

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TEAM DATACENTERED PUBLISHER

LOCATION

Dutch Data Center Association (DDA)

Dutch Data Center Association Herengracht 342 H 1016 CG Amsterdam

EDITOR IN CHIEF

The Netherlands

Mels Dees

ADVERTISEMENTS ART DIRECTOR Asha Garib

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INTERVIEWS

ANALYSES

36

10

94

ARTHUR VAN DIJK

WHERE THE DATA LIVES

TEN YEARS OF DDA

COMMISARIS VAN DE KONING (PNH)

ARCHITECTURE FOR AN INVISIBLE INFRASTRUCTURE

AN ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION WITH SUBSTANCE

38

60

114

“ WE NEED TO TELL THE STORY”

ENERGY MARKET UPDATE

ANNEMARIE BRANDSEN

STROOMKR8 (Q1 + Q2, 2025)

DATA CENTER SECTOR EVENTS

(DIGITAL REALT Y)

52

80

THROUGH THE EYES OF A PHYSICIST

AI FACTORIES IN EUROPE

BÉLA WALDHAUSER ON THE FUTURE OF DATA CENTERS

6

EVENTS

EXPERT INSIGHTS

LIFESTYLE

ESSAY

20

24

72

STIJN GROVE

PORTUGAL BUILDS THE GIGAWATT GATEWAY FOR AI

CONSOLIDATION, CAPITAL & CRITICAL MASS

50 NIEK VAN DER PAS

58

POWER PLAY IN THE EUROPEAN DATA CENTER INDUSTRY

82 FROM ENIAC TO THE DATA CENTER OF THE FUTURE

NATASCHA GERAEDTS

70 ARJAN WESTERHOFF

78 FREDERIK DE HAAS VAN DORSSER

92 ALBERTO RAVAGNI

7

DATACENTERS AT THE FRONTIER An anniversary is always a moment to pause and reflect.

Kevin Flynn captured it best in Tron:

The Dutch Data Center Association is celebrating its

“The Grid. A digital frontier. I tried to picture clusters

tenth year, and it could hardly let the milestone pass

of information as they moved through the computer.

without attention in this edition of Datacentered. And

What did they look like? Ships? Motorcycles? Were

rightly so. This is not only a time to look back; it is

the circuits like freeways? I kept dreaming of a world I

above all an opportunity to look forward. That is why

thought I’d never see. And then, one day… I got in.”

the theme of this edition is Back & Forth. When the editorial team explored that theme, art director Asha

What was futurism in 1982 is business as usual today.

Garib quickly produced a mood board with one central

Digital twins, AI systems, high-density datacenters: this

reference point: the film Tron.

is our grid, our frontier. We no longer dream of stepping inside: we are already in.

When Tron premiered in 1982, for most viewers it was pure science fiction. Kevin Flynn, a programmer who

Digital twins make the back & forth tangible. A factory,

literally steps into a digital world, characters who live

a turbine or an entire city gains a digital mirror that

and act inside that world, battling across grids and

moves in real time. Data flows into models, insights flow

racing on light cycles. Today we would call them avatars.

back into the physical world. It is not only reflection but prediction, not only prediction but control. AI sharpens

For me, and for a handful of fellow nerds, the film felt

this further, turning replicas into advisors.

personal. Flynn was the kind of programmer we dreamed of being, while we were wrestling with BASIC on home

And yet, none of it exists without datacenters. Where

computers late at night. Hours spent typing commands,

Tron’s visuals relied on scattered machines, today

debugging endlessly, trying to make machines obey:

compute converges in vast, high-density clusters

that was the reality of the early 1980s.

powered by renewable energy and ultra-low-latency networks. These are the infrastructures that turn theory

Disney did not use datacenters as we know them today.

into catalyst, vision into industry.

Instead, it worked with pioneering graphics studios like MAGI and Triple-I, each running its own mainframes

Flynn dreamed of a frontier he thought he would never

and custom hardware. Programmers wrote in C and

see. We live in that frontier now. The difference is that

assembly, rendering frame by frame.

we understand its foundation. It is not science fiction, but the datacenters we build and optimize every day.

There is a striking paradox here: the film that imagined a centralized digital universe was built by distributed

“This is not only a time to look back; it is above all an opportunity to look forward.”

compute power scattered across different studios.

What we might now call decentralized edge-datacenters together created the illusion of one seamless world.

Only later would centralization and scale come to define the infrastructure we now depend on. That tension, the back & forth between imagination and reality, is precisely the theme of this issue. It connects Tron to our present.

- MELS DEES 8

MELS DEES Editor-In-Chief Photo: Paul Tolenaar

9

WHERE THE DATA LIVES: ARCHITECTURE FOR AN INVISIBLE INFRASTRUCTURE TEXT: MELS DEES

Data centers are everywhere, yet rarely visible. Their architecture is often reduced to technical necessity. Yet, it is precisely these buildings that embody the digital condition of our time and thus demand more than merely functional design.

At the end of the nineteenth and the beginning of the twentieth century, monumental stations, stadiums, and post offices arose around the world. These buildings were more than functional infrastructure; they embodied progress.

Their arches, halls, and ornaments made visible that societies were modernizing, and that new forms of mobility and communication were taking center stage. The station was not merely a place to catch a train, but a cathedral of travel, the post office not merely a distribution point, but a temple of connection. Architecture made the technology of that time tangible and recognizable.

Today, we are in a similar transition. Data centers are the invisible stables of our digital society. They operate day and night and enable what we have come to take for granted: video calling, online shopping, artificial intelligence.

Yet they usually appear as anonymous boxes in the landscape, buildings that seem to consume primarily energy and water. This loses an essential dimension: the architecture that confers meaning and demonstrates that data has a place in our living environment.

The German philosopher Martin Heidegger argued that technology is never neutral. Every technical object, every building, expresses a specific relationship to the world. A data center is therefore not merely an engine room of the digital economy, but also a spatial expression of our relationship to data, information, and connectivity. Architecture can make this meaning visible and tangible.

10

THE BOX VERSUS THE SCALE Antti-Jussi Laine, Data Centre Business Lead at Sweco,

those threatening, gigantic sandwich-panel buildings.”

points out that data centres need to evolve in their

He sees opportunities, particularly in smaller and more

architectural expression. While they have traditionally

urban forms, to bring data centers closer to society and

often been simple, industrial boxes, today’s world calls

increase their practical benefits, such as heat reuse.

for designs that are also visually and urbanistically appealing. He compares this to the development of

The choice of scale and form is not only aesthetic but

waste-to-energy facilities, which have evolved from

directly affects the living environment. Laine points

grey, power station–like buildings into architecturally

out that anonymous volumes not only disrupt the

striking projects, such as CopenHill in Denmark.

landscape but also affect the people who must live and work with them. “We need to understand how people

The Turkish data center project by Taci Yurtay, project

feel. And I argue that when we make architecture more

architect at Sweco, demonstrates that things can

pleasing to the eye, it even benefits the health of the

be done differently. “We were given the space to go

people who work there.”

beyond the usual box,” he says, describing the freedom offered by the client. The data center was divided into

Yurtay points to the peripheral location of many

five separate volumes, tailored to human scale and

data centers, often in areas with little urban planning

proportion. Offices, a restaurant, and even a hotel wing

attention. “There is a significant risk that such places

were located at the front. Patios, terraces, and greenery

will degenerate into monotonous industrial enclaves,

were integrated so that employees are not only among

no-man’s-lands

machines, but also in an environment that encourages

responsibility here is significant: infrastructure must not

interaction and socializing. Laine emphasizes that, in

impoverish the landscape. Varied volumes, materials

addition to hyperscale data centers, smaller forms

that feel natural and tactile, and landscape elements

also exist: “There are even micro-scale data centers,

that break up the scale can ensure that a data center

the size of a shipping container. Architecture can be a

is part of an environment that also fosters human

way to give the whole a more positive image, instead of

presence.

11

lacking

quality.”

The

architect’s

THE CLIENT’S SPACE The architecture of data centers is largely determined

façade: it is the design of a system that is embedded in

by the client’s attitude. Yurtay emphasizes that the

its surroundings and nourishes society.

human scale in Turkey was only possible because the developer gave the architect freedom. “We were given

The Air is not only unique because of its climate

the space to go beyond the usual box.” According to

neutrality, but also because it was built within an

him, the client who thinks not only in terms of return,

existing industrial building. This makes it an example of

but also in terms of appearance, turns a data center

brownfield development, where the old structure was

into a calling card.

expanded with a new concrete section. Past and future are combined in a single design.

Laine also touches on this point, albeit from a different perspective. He argues that traditional construction

The façade was intended to visualize values such as

processes limit the imagination because they often

innovation and responsibility. The result is remarkable.

start with a fixed volume and only then flesh out the

The kinetic façade, constructed of aluminum panels,

system. “We should first optimize the system itself

responds to its surroundings, and moves with the wind.

to be as energy efficient as possible. Then we should

Inside the building, the challenge also turned into an

adapt the building, instead of creating a framework that

opportunity. A completely new steel structure was

limits the imagination.” Only clients who are willing to

erected, acting as a kind of room-in-room solution

give architects space beyond the standard box make

that carries the heart of the data center. This resulted

innovation and sustainability possible.

in a building that not only houses technology but also expresses architecture: breathing, responsive, and in

The economic reality is that two-thirds of the costs of

dialogue with its surroundings.

a data center go to installations. Architecture usually receives only a small portion of the budget. Yet, that is precisely why design is so important: a lot can be achieved with relatively modest resources. Laine also sees that public discussion often falls short. The focus is on energy and water consumption, and rightly so, but other aspects are overlooked. He emphasizes that data centers also offer social benefits: they enable working from home, digital learning, and virtual communication.

While twenty years ago people had to take the car or train for simple administrative tasks, many things can now be done from home.

While in Turkey the human scale was paramount, in Finland the focus was on sustainability and technological innovation. The Air data center is a prime example. It is considered the first climate-neutral hyperscale data center in Northern Europe, with Sweco fully responsible for the architecture, construction, and installations.

The design optimally utilizes local conditions. The cold Finnish climate allows for outdoor air cooling almost year-round, largely eliminating the need for energyintensive compressors. The electricity is generated entirely by wind power, and the residual heat from the servers is fed back into Vantaa’s district heating network. Architecture thus becomes more than a

16

DUTY TO SUSTAINABILITY In Finland, the architect plays a formally central role in

must be cautious in these situations: “You really have

projects like The Air. Laine explains that the architect

to be aware of what you can and cannot do, and still

usually acts as the lead designer, overseeing the entire

deliver a design that offers the best possible conditions

process. “Of course, it’s a joint effort between all our

for successful data center operations. We succeeded

departments, and we have a separate, well-equipped

in doing that with The Air.”

sustainability department.”

This isn’t just about technical adaptation, but about Since January 1, 2023, a European requirement has

a delicate balance between heritage and innovation.

also been in effect: every designer must calculate the

Converting a factory building into a data center means

carbon footprint of their design. Sweco was already

showing respect for the past while simultaneously

prepared for this but went further: emissions from the

creating an infrastructure for the future. Here, the

construction site are also included. This fundamentally

architect demonstrates his ability to think holistically:

changes the role of architecture: no longer decoration,

to unite technology, culture, and society in a single

but the discipline that structurally and systematically

design.

integrates sustainability into construction.

Laine looks ahead: “I’d love to see an urban data center This requirement is bringing about a cultural shift.

concept. I believe architects are the best people there

Where architects previously focused primarily on

to determine how we embed this center for this specific

form and appearance, they are now responsible for

location, so that we fulfill all the aesthetic values and

the calculable, measurable impact of their design. The

make it an integrated part of that community.” His

facade is not just a skin, but a choice for material flows,

emphasis is not only on the environment, but also

energy intensity, and circularity. Architecture thus

on the people who work there. “People must feel

becomes instrumental in the transition to a climate-

comfortable and healthy at work.” Data centers are not

neutral society. In addition to new construction

empty boxes full of machines. Thousands of people,

projects, brownfields are playing an increasingly

think operators, mechanics, cleaners, and logistics

important role. These are often factories designed by

personnel, work there daily. For them, a healthy and

national architects and therefore possess a certain

pleasant environment is crucial.

cultural significance. Laine emphasizes that architects

CATHEDRALS OF THE DIGITAL AGE When the voices of Yurtay and Laine are brought together, a broad perspective emerges. In Turkey, the emphasis is on human scale and social interaction, in Finland, on sustainability and ecological responsibility.

Both projects showcase data centers that are more than neutral boxes. They confirm Heidegger’s idea that technology is never neutral: every data center reveals how we relate to the world, whether it concerns human scale, landscape, or climate.

Just as stations and post offices once symbolized the modernity of industrial society, data centers can evolve into recognizable beacons of the digital society. Architecture gives this infrastructure a face and prevents us from being swallowed up by soulless environments.

17

STIJN DUTCH DATA CENTER ASSOCIATION

GROVE

20

AI SOVEREIGNTY STARTS IN THE DATA CENTER Whoever controls computing power sets the rules for

AI RUNS ON PHYSICAL INFRASTRUCTURE

innovation. And the beating heart of that power is the

We are once again at a tipping point: the AI revolution.

data center. Europe now stands at a crossroads: invest

As with previous technological leaps, the real story

in AI infrastructure today, or watch others shape the

is not only about the technology itself but about

future.

the foundation beneath it. “AI is not a marginal improvement; it is, as we now know, a fundamental

History shows that nations which invest early in the

productivity engine that will reshape industries, value

dominant infrastructure of their era secure long-

chains, and geopolitical balances of power. Behind

lasting economic and geopolitical advantages. In the

the abstractions of software and ‘the cloud’ lies a very

19th century, Britain built its railway network at record

concrete reality that this sector understands better

speed. After World War II, the United States poured

than anyone: high-density data centers packed with

resources into a national highway system. In the 1990s,

AI chip clusters, linked by ultra-low-latency networks,

South Korea developed a digital backbone that helped

and powered by stable, preferably renewable, energy.

it become a world leader in semiconductors. Today,

Without that base, as is increasingly clear, AI remains a

the strategic asset is large-scale, energy-intensive

theory rather than an economic catalyst.”

computing capacity.

What may appear to be virtual is in fact deeply physical, This is not a new lesson. Ray Dalio, the American

and it is in this physical layer that nations are already

billionaire investor, founder of Bridgewater Associates,

competing. The countries that succeed in building this

and author on economic cycles, has studied the rise

infrastructure first and at scale will not only accelerate

and fall of world powers. The pattern is consistent:

their own economies, they will also dictate the rules of

visionary nations build their infrastructure before

the global game.

the need becomes urgent. The Dutch example from the 17th century is a case in point. The VOC (Dutch

That principle is already visible today. China has made

East India Company) was far more than just a trading

the development of a fully sovereign digital and AI

company; it was part of a broader ecosystem of ports,

infrastructure a national priority, building everything

shipyards, financing models, and knowledge networks.

from chips to supercomputers to entire AI ecosystems under its own control. In the United States, successive

Without that foundation, Amsterdam would never have

administrations have poured resources into compute

risen to become the global city it was. And even now,

capacity. Under President Trump the emphasis on

centuries later, the city would be far less relevant and

strengthening domestic IT infrastructure became

far less developed than it is for so many people today.

even sharper, with large-scale investment programs designed to ensure that American companies and

This demonstrates how strategic investments in

institutions would never depend on foreign platforms

infrastructure echo across centuries and continue to

for critical technologies. These countries understand

shape prosperity long after their original purpose has

that whoever controls the digital backbone controls

faded. The lesson from history is that infrastructure

the direction of future innovation.

defines power for generations, and in our own time this role is being taken up by digital and AI infrastructure.

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debates. Important though regulation is, rules without

THE OPPORTUNITY: AI-READYCAMPUSES AND DIGITALSOVEREIGNTY

resources create only the illusion of strength. It would

With the right choices, the Netherlands can

be wrong, however, to say that nothing is happening.

develop AI-ready campuses where compute power,

Individual countries have taken bold steps. France is

universities, startups, and energy hubs converge.

investing billions in national AI supercomputers, and the

Our geography makes us ideally placed to deliver

United Kingdom is developing so-called AI Growth Zones

low-latency AI services to the whole of Europe.

that bring research, talent, and infrastructure together.

A sovereign AI cloud would strengthen strategic

What Europe lacks is not activity but scale and cohesion,

autonomy and embed European values and ethics

and in the race for AI sovereignty those missing elements

into AI systems.

Europe, by contrast, often remains stuck in regulatory

could prove decisive.

That is why data centers should no longer be treated as a peripheral or even problematic industry. Too

THE NETHERLANDS: STRONG ADVANTAGES, REAL RISKS

often they are scapegoated for energy or water

The Netherlands already has much going for it: a

most efficient infrastructures we have. This is a

high-tech industrial base, global data links, a mature

misplaced debate that distracts from the real

data center ecosystem, top-tier universities, and

systemic challenges we face in energy, water, and

growing offshore wind capacity. But AI brings

spatial planning. When we allow emotions and

new, sharper demands. These include extremely

headlines to dictate policy, we end up regulating

low latency, a highly predictable energy supply,

symbols rather than solving problems.

consumption, while in reality they are among the

massive compute density, and scaling far beyond our current infrastructure.

Data centers are not the enemy of sustainability; they are essential partners in achieving it. They

Without coordinated leadership, we risk a ‘Nijmegen

make it possible to run cities more efficiently, to

moment’. In 1865, the city of Nijmegen, located in

reduce waste in logistics, to accelerate scientific

the eastern part of the Netherlands, was the last

breakthroughs, and to enable the digital services

Dutch city with more than 20,000 inhabitants to

that are already the backbone of modern healthcare,

be connected to the national railway network. Its

education, and finance. The workloads they handle,

city council had failed to recognize the importance

from climate simulations to medical AI, are not

of rail transport and delayed the investment. In

luxuries. They are tools that help us address the

today’s context, that would mean waiting too long

very crises some critics accuse them of causing.

in the data center sector and ending up working

Other than that, data centers can strengthen the

with standards and infrastructures determined

energy system by smart strategic placing, its on-

elsewhere.

site flexible power capacity, and its data-thermia.

We therefore need a long-term strategy that aligns

This is why facts must guide policy. Training

policy, spatial planning, energy systems, and talent

advanced AI models does indeed demand large

pipelines. That means answering some fundamental

amounts of energy, but data centers are already

questions. Where should new data center clusters

leaders in energy efficiency, water reuse, and the

be located? How do we connect them sustainably

integration of renewable sources. Unlike many

to the energy grid? How do we ensure enough highly

traditional industries, they measure and optimize

skilled technical talent? And how do we combine

every kilowatt and every liter, setting benchmarks

public and private investment at scale?

for others to follow. Singling them out as the problem ignores both their progress and their

We must also face the reality of AI’s energy

potential.

demands. Training cutting-edge AI models can require up to ten times more capacity than conventional workloads. That calls for investment in large-scale renewable energy, guaranteed supply, and intelligent load balancing.

22

Every sector will increasingly depend on this

conditions to compete. Sovereignty cannot be

foundation. From healthcare that relies on AI

declared. It must be constructed, brick by brick,

diagnostics, to agriculture that uses predictive

rack by rack, cluster by cluster.

modeling, to finance that requires secure and scalable digital infrastructure, none of it functions

The responsibility does not lie with governments

without the computing backbone provided by data

alone.

centers. To delay investment in this foundation is

institutions all have a stake in this future. Public-

not just to postpone growth in the digital economy.

private partnerships will be essential to create the

It is to mortgage the broader prosperity and

scale that AI requires. Citizens, too, must understand

competitiveness of society itself.

that this is not about abstract digital clouds floating

Companies,

universities,

and

research

somewhere above our heads. It is about very I have long argued that sovereignty in the digital

real, physical infrastructures that determine their

age is not an abstract ideal but something rooted

prosperity, security, and opportunities.

in tangible assets. Just as roads, railways, and ports once defined the rise of nations, today it is the

The question before us is simple: do we take

invisible but essential backbone of compute power

ownership of our future, or do we outsource it?

that will determine who leads and who follows.

History offers a clear warning. Those who failed

Without it, Europe’s aspirations for autonomy risk

to invest in the dominant infrastructures of their

collapsing into dependency. We cannot expect to

time became dependent on others, paying a price

shape AI’s trajectory if we rely on infrastructures,

in diminished influence and lost opportunity. The

standards, and platforms built elsewhere.

same pattern is unfolding today with AI. The nations that are building capacity now will set the pace

The reality is that Europe is already lagging. While

of innovation for decades to come. Those that

the United States and China scale their compute

hesitate will have no choice but to follow.

capacity at unprecedented speed, much of the European debate is still stuck in regulations and

Control over AI compute power is control over

concerns

investment. Rules

innovation itself. The real question is no longer

without resources are a hollow strategy. If we

rather than

bold

whether to invest. The real question is how to move

want European values to shape the future of AI,

quickly and in a coordinated way. History tells us

we must first ensure that Europe possesses the

that those who wait are left behind. Will we act like

infrastructure on which that future will be built.

Amsterdam in the era of the VOC, or like Nijmegen before the railway?

This is not just a technological issue but a strategic one, comparable to energy security or defense.

No country would dream of outsourcing its entire energy supply or its military capability to foreign powers, yet in the digital realm we sometimes seem content to depend on external providers. That is a dangerous illusion. True sovereignty means building and owning the means of production, distribution, and security in the digital domain. Compute power is no less vital than oil, gas, or steel once were, and the stakes are just as high.

If Europe is serious about its geopolitical role, it must recognize compute capacity as critical infrastructure and treat it with the same urgency.

Investments in renewable energy and resilient networks should go hand in hand with investments in data centers and AI clusters. It is not enough to regulate Big Tech. Europe must also build the

23

PORTUGAL BUILDS THE GIGAWATT GATEWAY FOR AI TEXT: MELS DEES

On the southwestern coast of Portugal, in the port city of Sines, one of Europe’s most ambitious digital infrastructure projects is underway: Start Campus.

What began as a repurposing of an industrial site around a decommissioned coal plant is now evolving into a state-of-the-art data center campus with a planned capacity of 1.2 gigawatts.

The location plays a central role in the continent’s strategic data structure: access to subsea cables, low latency to the Americas, Africa, and Europe, and one of the most sustainable energy profiles in Europe. In a conversation with Omer Wilson, Chief Marketing Officer at Start Campus, and Pablo Ruiz-Escribano, SVP Secure Power & Data Center Business at Schneider Electric, it becomes clear this development is far more than just a data center project. It’s a new standard for AI-ready digital infrastructure.

According to Wilson, it all started with a rigorous selection process. “Our investors analyzed over fifty sites across Europe. Portugal stood out.” One of the decisive factors was the availability of renewable energy. “Portugal’s current energy mix is already 87% renewable. In five to six years, that’ll surpass 90%.

That’s essential for us and our customers.”

24

COMPETITIVE ENERGY COSTS The economic equation also added up. “Energy costs here are just above those in Scandinavia but still extremely competitive,” says Wilson. Price isn’t the only factor. Market stability also plays a role. “You have to be sure you can power a campus of this scale with clean electricity at all times.”

The site itself presented a unique opportunity. “We found a decommissioned coal power plant by the sea, which still had operational seawater intake infrastructure for cooling. We integrated that into our design.” The seawater cooling system operates on an open-loop basis. “The water flows past heat exchangers, indirectly cooling internal systems, and is then returned to the sea, at the right temperature and in full compliance with regulations.” This reduces the campus’s water consumption to nearly zero, making the project ecologically attractive as well.

According to Ruiz-Escribano, this kind of innovation was

exactly

what

attracted

Schneider

Electric.

“Start Campus aligns perfectly with our mission to combine sustainability and digitization. From the first conversation, we saw a shared vision: building infrastructure that is scalable, energy-efficient, and future-proof.”

25

EARLY-STAGE COLLABORATION The partnership began long before the first construction phase. “We were involved more than two years before building started,” says Ruiz-Escribano. “In co-creation sessions, we discussed power profiles, cooling, backup systems, automation, and scalability. That allowed us to solve many challenges before the first cables were laid.”

The campus comprises six data center buildings, named SIN01 through SIN06. Schneider Electric partnered with Start Campus on the successful delivery of the SIN01 facility, the first data center of the 1.2GW campus.

SIN01 has been operational since late 2024, running at around 26 to 31 megawatts. The next buildings will each scale up to 180/220 megawatts each. The entire campus will be built in phases until 2030. Wilson: “We’re building for the future. AI power demand is enormous.

One large client could potentially need 100 megawatts alone. That’s why we’re designing at that scale now.”

Ruiz-Escribano explains the technical implications: “Rack density is increasing dramatically. Where you used to see 1.5 megawatts in a suite, we now see up to 150 kilowatts per rack in SIN01. SIN02 is being designed for 700 kilowatts per rack.” These kinds of loads require a whole new infrastructure. “You need advanced power distribution, redundancy, thermal monitoring, and direct liquid cooling. Schneider Electric provides Galaxy VX UPS systems, SF6-free medium-voltage switchgear, modular low-voltage distribution with realtime monitoring, and complete digitization through EcoStruxure.”

The software layer is just as important as the hardware.

“With our EcoStruxure solutions, we can monitor power, temperature, consumption, and performance down to the rack level. That enables rapid response and predictive maintenance. Everything is redundant and secure. And our systems are AI-ready to analyze that monitoring data.”

28

29

AI-READY AND HYPERSCALER - FOCUSED That level of intelligence is essential given the type

include

of customers Start Campus attracts. “We focus on

response, and maintenance,” says Ruiz-Escribano. “At

hyperscalers, AI clusters and GPU-based workloads.

this scale, that’s non-negotiable. If something goes

These run 24/7. They demand zero downtime, low

wrong, you need to resolve it in minutes, not hours.”

carbon footprints, and complete insight into their

Wilson elaborates: “With tens of megawatts per building

consumption,” Wilson explains.

and thousands of racks per hall, even a short disruption

monitoring,

asset

management,

incident

means thousands of CPU or GPU cores stop working.

With support from Schneider, Start Campus signed

The economic impact of a single minute of downtime

Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs) that guarantee

is exponentially higher than in traditional data centers.

100% renewable energy. “We buy wind and solar power

Everything here is about maximum availability. The

from the region through long-term contracts, so

service ecosystem must scale accordingly, with fast

customers know exactly where their energy is coming

response, on-site spare parts, and redundancy in both

from,” says Wilson.

people and systems. That only works if your partner is involved from the design stage.”

Schneider Electric also provides on-site support. “We have a permanent team on campus. Our services

EUROPEAN DIGITAL GATEWAY Sines’s strategic location offers more than sun and

OCP Ready v2 certification means that a data center

wind. The city lies on the Atlantic coast and connects

is fully equipped to support this open, vendor-neutral

to an increasing number of subsea fiber cables. “That’s

hardware directly, covering racks, power, cooling,

crucial,” says Wilson. “Sines gives us direct connectivity

cabling, access, and service processes. The latest

to North America, Africa, and Latin America. This is

version emphasizes sustainability, energy efficiency

not just a Portuguese project. It’s a European digital

(such as low PUE), high power density, and support for

gateway.”

liquid cooling.

The economic impact is also significant. The total

For hyperscalers and cloud/AI providers, this is vital.

investment amounts to €8.5 billion. The Portuguese

It means they can deploy their own OCP-compatible

government has designated Start Campus as a Project

equipment without custom configurations. SIN01 and

of National Interest. “We estimate this project will

SIN02’s OCP Ready status confirms that these facilities

contribute €1.2 billion annually to GDP,” says Wilson.

are built for the next generation of digital infrastructure.

“During construction, roughly 700 people are working

They are flexible, open, and designed to handle extreme

on-site. Eventually, that will grow to over 9,000 direct

workloads.

and indirect jobs.”

Ruiz-Escribano: “That certification proves we support The campus is also OCP Ready v2-certified. OCP

open compute hardware, including AI accelerators and

stands for the Open Compute Project, a global initiative

modular designs. That’s important for customers who

launched by Facebook (now Meta) in 2011 to promote

want to scale using open standards.”

more efficient, scalable, and energy-conscious data center

hardware

through

standardized,

modular

designs.

32

BEYOND THE HYPERSCALE Wilson and Ruiz-Escribano agree that what’s being built here goes beyond hyperscale. “We’re creating the infrastructure layer for the AI-driven economy,” Wilson says. “Just as you need roads, ports, or power plants, you also need these facilities. But they must be sustainable, scalable, and reliable.”

They see data centers not as technical endpoints for storage, but as strategic hubs in a world increasingly dependent on digital processes. From AI models to cloud platforms and real-time analytics: nearly every sector relies on data-heavy applications that require immense compute power. The infrastructure enabling that must now be treated like a public utility. That requires more than just power and connectivity, it calls for resilient, energy-efficient, and adaptable facilities that can evolve with unpredictable technological shifts. Start Campus aims to lead in both capacity and approach.

The collaboration between the two companies is central to this goal. “Without Schneider Electric, we couldn’t have achieved this scale, speed, and quality on the SIN01 facility,” says Wilson. He emphasizes how well the technical teams aligned. “What I value is that we weren’t given cookie-cutter solutions. Everything was built around our challenges and ambitions. Whether it was power distribution, monitoring, or cooling strategies. It was always an open technical dialogue.”

That flexibility was key to building a data center from the ground up for workloads that are only just emerging. “We’re designing today for technologies still in development. That requires partners who are agile Just five years ago, a 50-megawatt data center was

and technically bold,” says Wilson.

considered ‘large.’ Wilson: “Today, we’re building single Ruiz-Escribano agrees: “And it goes both ways. Start

buildings of 180 megawatts, and scaling the entire

Campus gave us the opportunity to showcase what

campus to one gigawatt.” That changes everything, from

our technology can do in a next-gen campus. This is a

national infrastructure decisions to grid connections,

flagship project.”

water management, and even raw material planning.

“But,” Wilson adds, “you can build in flexibility. And

To conclude, Wilson reflects on the future. “Can you

that’s what we’ve done. What we design today can

still plan 30 years ahead in this sector?” he asks. And

be adapted tomorrow to support new workloads,

he answers himself: “Barely. The days of designing

cooling methods, or power densities. That adaptability

a campus with a three-decade lifecycle are over.

is perhaps our greatest strength and essential for

Technology, regulations, demand. It’s all moving very

investing in this sector.”

fast.”

33

[TECHNICAL OVERVIEW BOX] SINES DATA CAMPUS (START CAMPUS)

BUILDINGS

CAPACITY

6 data center buildings

1.2 gigawatts IT power

(SIN01–SIN06)

(largest in Europe)

SIN01

SIN02

Operational since Q4 2024,

Under pre-construction,

26–31 MW IT capacity

planned up to 180 MW

RACK DENSITY

COOLING

Up to 150 kW/rack (SIN01),

Open-loop seawater cooling;

up to 700 kW/rack (SIN02+)

zero drinking water use

ENERGY SOURCE

PUE

100% renewable via regional PPAs

Approx. 1.1

WUE

OCP CERTIFICATION

Near 0

OCP Ready v2 (SIN01 & SIN02)

MONITORING & SOFTWARE

ON-SITE SERVICES

EcoStruxure

24/7 maintenance,

(EBO, PME, Planon)

asset management, incident response

INVESTMENT

ECONOMIC IMPACT

€8.5 billion total

€1.2 billion annual GDP contribution

EMPLOYMENT

STRATEGIC LOCATION

700 construction jobs,

Direct access to subsea cables

up to 9,000 total jobs

to the US, Africa, and Latin America

34

35

CONNECTING IS IN OUR DNA, EVEN DIGITALLY TEXT: MELS DEES

ARTHUR VAN DIJK

KING’S COMMISSIONER FOR THE PROVINCE OF NORTH HOLLAND

36

The Netherlands is a country built on connection. For centuries, we have constructed dikes, locks, roads, and ports to link trade, knowledge, and people. Today, we continue that tradition in the digital world. The data streams flowing through our country each day form the modern infrastructure of our economy. Without these flows, not only the internet but society itself would grind to a halt.

North Holland plays a key role in this. Thanks to its location, international cable connections, and innovative businesses, the province has become a digital hub within Europe. Here, networks converge, and new ecosystems of companies emerge that depend on fast, reliable connections. Data centers are a vital link in this process.

At the same time, we must continue to invest in knowledge, innovation, and collaboration. Digital infrastructure is not a goal, but a foundation for new applications, from artificial intelligence and medical technology to climate research. By connecting education, business, and government, we strengthen both the resilience of our economy and the quality of our society.

A STRATEGY FOR DATA CENTERS Data centers require space, energy, and careful spatial

Companies that already integrate such measures into

planning. That is why the province adopted a dedicated

their plans naturally have a head start. This creates a

data center strategy back in 2022. This strategy

reciprocal relationship between the economy and the

provides

environment.

direction

and

prevents

uncoordinated

growth. We focus on clustering, sustainability, and spatial quality. In North Holland, we have identified

Aesthetics also deserve attention. Just as logistics

three areas where data centers are concentrated: the

companies increasingly invest in architecture and

Amsterdam Metropolitan Area, Hollands Kroon in the

landscaping, the same applies to data centers.

Kop van Noord-Holland region, and Haarlemmermeer.

Large buildings, if well-designed, can blend into

By focusing on these clear clusters, we maintain

their surroundings or even enhance them. The era of

oversight, make better use of existing infrastructure,

anonymous boxes in green areas is over. Digitalisation

and protect the open landscape elsewhere.

can and should visibly contribute to an attractive, future-oriented landscape.

We do this with an eye to the future. The demand for digital infrastructure continues to grow, but space and

As a province, we have the responsibility to oversee

energy supplies are not unlimited. Grid congestion

the whole picture. North Holland has 44 municipalities,

is a real challenge in parts of our province. In the

each with its own needs and boundaries. We ensure

Amsterdam region, the electricity grid is almost full,

that all the pieces of the puzzle fit together: above,

making expansion there difficult. In Hollands Kroon,

below, and on the ground. This is not always easy, but it

where hyperscalers have established themselves, this

is essential to maintain the balance between economic

is less of an issue: the required capacity was already

growth, liveability, and sustainability.

planned in earlier stages. Those forward-looking decisions ensure that new data centers there fit better

Our digital infrastructure has become as crucial to our

within the existing grid structure.

prosperity as our ports, roads, and airports once were.

North Holland stands at the heart of this development.

The challenge is to make innovation and sustainability

Connecting is in our DNA and if we continue to act with

go hand in hand. Data centers can contribute to

the same vision and care as in the past, the Netherlands

the energy transition, for example, by supplying

will remain a country that connects the world, both

residual heat to residential areas or business parks.

physically and digitally.

37

WE NEED TO TELL

THE STORY ANNEMARIE BRANDSEN Digital Realty recently presented ANNEMARIE BRANDSEN as the new Director of Marketing Europe North. Based in Amsterdam, she leads the regional marketing team. Her mission: to further strengthen the Digital Realty brand and accelerate the company’s growth in Northern Europe. This is in a sector that is rapidly changing due to themes such as data sovereignty, sustainability, and AI. Brandsen is no stranger to the IT world. She worked at Microsoft for over eight years, where she launched CRM Online and managed international teams. Later, at Cisco, she developed strategies for Account-Based Marketing and guided the rollout of global campaigns in the EMEA region.

We meet her at AMS17, Digital Realty’s data center at Amsterdam Science Park. The iconic building, with a floor space of over 11,000 square meters and a capacity of over 40 megawatts, is known for its modern architecture and strategic location in the heart of Amsterdam’s internet hub.

38

TEXT

INTERVIEWER

PHOTOGRAPHY

ART DIRECTION

MELS DEES

MELISSA SCHOLTEN

HUGO ONINK

ASHA GARIB

BACK

FORTH

Melissa Scholten (MS): You’ve had an impressive journey: from Head of Marketing in the IT industry to leading a sub-regional marketing team at one of the largest data center companies in the world. Can you take us through that transition? What motivated you, and how has your background influenced your perspective on the data center market?

Annemarie Brandsen (AB): I don’t actually see the move to Digital Realty as a radical career shift. For me, it’s a logical continuation of what I was already doing. At Cisco, Microsoft, and KPN, I was already working on issues very closely related to the data center world. Of course, you could say that I was previously more involved in the software and hardware side of things, but ultimately, it always comes down to the same thing: how can technology strengthen a customer’s business?

MS: There are differences, too.

AB: Definitely. The difference is that in a data center, you directly touch the infrastructure. It’s not about an application or a piece of software, but about the foundation on which everything runs. AI, cybersecurity, cloud, latency: all these themes depend on where and how data is stored and processed. That goes to the heart of business operations.

So, for me, it didn’t feel like a leap into the unknown, but rather a deep dive into a domain I was already familiar with. Moreover, I’m someone who loves building. I’m always looking for growth markets where I can add value. And the data center industry is precisely such a market: growing rapidly, incredibly relevant, and full of challenges that demand effective marketing.

MS: So, you were already familiar with data centers before you took on this role?

AB: Absolutely. My first real experience was at Microsoft in Ireland. I got to see the inside of a data center there, and it was impressive. From the outside, it looks like a gray, anonymous building—nothing special. But inside, I felt that this was the core of everything we do digitally. The security level was bizarrely high: stricter than at some embassies. Even taxi drivers didn’t know where they were going. There was something almost mystical about it.

That moment made a lot clear: all those emails, those photos in the cloud, streaming movies, our everyday apps—they all run here, in such buildings. The fact that as an outsider you have no idea fascinated me. And that fascination has never really gone away.

42

44

MS: How does your previous experience help you better understand the complexities of data centers and apply that to your marketing strategy?

AB: A lot. At Cisco, Microsoft, and KPN, I was already accustomed to marketing revolving around the customer’s business needs. It’s never about the technology itself, but about what you solve with it.

This is precisely the case for data centers.

I also recognize the dynamics of a partner model. In our sector, you not only work directly with customers but also with a broad network of implementation partners, system integrators, and consultants.

This means your marketing strategy always has two tracks: communicating directly with major customers and equipping your partners with the right stories and materials.

What also helps me is my habit of thinking in ecosystems. Technology never works in isolation. Data centers are part of a chain where cloud providers, telecom companies, software vendors, and end customers are all interlinked. I incorporate this perspective into my approach.

And finally, I’ve always worked in growth markets. I love building something, motivating teams, and sharply positioning propositions.

I feel this very strongly in the data center world. When I read the job posting, I really thought: this is me, this is my kind of person.

MS: At the same time, data centers sometimes have a less positive image in the public eye. They’re seen as “big boxes that consume a lot of energy.” How do you deal with that?

AB: I recognize that. I often hear: “You use so much power.” And yes, that’s true, a data center uses a lot of energy. But what people forget is that they themselves are users. Every app you open, every email, every photo in the cloud, every bank transaction: it all runs in a data center.

People only see the building, not the ecosystem. They don’t see that their Netflix series, their Uber ride, or their WhatsApp message depends on data centers. That’s why I always say that awareness is the first step. Without data centers, our digital society will collapse.

Step two is explaining what we’re doing to make it more sustainable.

Because we take those concerns seriously. Huge innovations are underway: liquid cooling, more efficient cooling with a circular system without using potable water, AI for predictive maintenance that saves energy, and the reuse of residual heat. The image that data centers are only polluting is no longer true. We are leading the way in green innovation, and our global portfolio allows us to do this on a large scale.

45

ANNEMARIE BRANDSEN

MS: So, storytelling and awareness are

AB: The biggest challenge is reaching the

important pillars of your strategy?

right people, through the right channels, with the right message at the right time.

AB: Absolutely. Storytelling is crucial. If

The

decision-making

unit

has

grown

you explain that your hospital records,

enormously; actually, since the pandemic.

your bank account, and your favorite apps

Where six people used to participate in

all depend on data centers, people get a

decisions, there are now sometimes fifteen

different perspective. Moreover, it’s not just

or more. And it involves completely different

a “nice story” that we’re making things more

disciplines: from the CIO to HR, from security

sustainable. It’s not window dressing. It’s

to operations.

a fact. Data centers will be able to deploy technology for sustainable solutions on a

Moreover, you’re

dealing

large scale in the future. You have to make

generations.

that visible. I see it as a social responsibility.

want sales pitches at all or leaving their

We have to tell the story, but we also have

information anywhere. They want to find

to deliver on it. And fortunately, that’s

their information online, make their own

happening.

decisions, and only contact a company very

Younger

with

different

generations

don’t

late in the sales funnel. Older generations

MS: Back to your career. You’ve worked in various sectors and positions. How have those experiences shaped your professional perspective?

expect their information and contact in a different way. That requires a multichannel and multigenerational approach.

And finally, measurement has become much

AB: I’ve always consciously made choices that would challenge and enrich me. I love constantly learning new things. That’s why I deliberately gained experience in a variety of marketing roles: media research, agency work, corporate marketing, and B2B. This breadth gives me a T-shaped profile as a leader: broad across the entire spectrum of marketing, but also deep in certain specializations. That’s important, because marketing is incredibly diverse. You have

more important. You can spend tons of money on campaigns, but what’s the return?

I grew up with a strong focus on ROI. I want to know: which investment yields which deal or customer relationship? We need to integrate that discipline much more strongly into B2B marketing.

MS: How do you see data and technology playing a role in this?

data analysis, content, PR, digital, events,

AB : A huge role. With data, you can target,

partner marketing: it’s all interconnected.

segment,

and

personalize

much

more

effectively. You can understand customer Moreover, I see marketing as the intersection

behavior, what information they’re looking

of art and science. On the one hand, you

for, and where they drop off.

work

with

data,

technology,

and

ROI

accountability. On the other, it’s about

But you have to do it smartly and ethically.

creativity,

storytelling.

In Europe, we have GDPR, and that’s a good

Exactly what that combination makes it so

thing. It keeps us on our toes. We must be

fascinating for me.

transparent and handle data respectfully.

emotion,

and

That’s not just legislation; it’s also a matter

MS: What do you think are the most important marketing challenges in the data center sector?

of trust. I see data and technology as tools to be more relevant. Ultimately, it’s about adding value. No spam, no push, but content that truly helps the customer.

MS: You’re relatively new to this role. What are your

This trend is only accelerating. On the one hand,

main objectives with the marketing team?

because there’s a shortage of people, and on the other, because customer needs are changing. Nobody wants to wait ten minutes on hold anymore. Soon, you’ll have

AB: Firstly: smarter and more targeted targeting. Not

a choice: do you want to wait for a human or be helped

spray-and-pray, but precisely the right message for

immediately by AI that answers 99% of your questions?

the right target group. Secondly: collaborating more

People will adapt faster than they think. This is also what

closely with our partner ecosystem. Partners are often

happened with the introduction of the mobile phone at

already sitting at the client’s table. They know exactly

the end of the last century.

what’s going on. By working together, we can add much more value. And thirdly: storytelling. We need to spread

This has a significant impact on data centers: even

the word about data centers. Both their indispensability

more demand, even more capacity. For marketing, it

and their sustainability. This isn’t just a marketing task;

means telling stories that clearly demonstrate what

it’s a social responsibility.

this means for companies and consumers, without the magic or fear.

I’m looking forward to the future. I joined Digital Realty during a growth phase. With the many developments

MS: Finally, what advice would you give to professionals

and issues in the field of data, data sovereignty, and AI,

aspiring to a leadership role in the data center industry?

I see plenty of opportunities. For me, marketing isn’t a one-size-fits-all solution, but a strategic choice: what do we want to say, to whom, and especially why? Each

AB: Be open-minded. Stay curious. Keep your eyes

target group and industry requires its own approach. I

open for technological and societal trends. Think from

look forward to working with the team to further build

the customer’s perspective: what is their need, their

our visibility and contribute to Digital Realty’s ambitious

challenge?

growth through targeted campaigns.

And keep learning. The biggest pitfall is clinging to what worked yesterday. This industry is changing rapidly. If

MS: How do you see the data center industry

you don’t keep pace, you’ll fall behind. Leadership here

developing in the coming years? And how will you

means building, learning, and connecting. And that’s

adapt your strategy accordingly?

precisely what makes this sector so exciting.

AB: I think AI is a huge accelerator. In sectors like finance, you already see a lot of AI being used. In the near future, we might have a phone conversation with an AI agent instead of a human, for example.

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49

NIEK LEGRAND DATA CENTER SOLUTIONS

VAN DER PAS

50

MATURITY AND PASSING THE WORLD TO A NEW GENERATION The data center world is experiencing profound

such as PUE (Power Usage Effectiveness), REF (Renewable

change. In only a short period, we have witnessed

Energy Factor), and others. These metrics allow us to

AI grow exponentially. ChatGPT, which amazed us

understand efficiency, renewable energy usage, and

recently, is now a natural extension of our daily

environmental impact in a quantified way. Now we must

searches. Where once we typed a keyword, we now

apply this knowledge directly to AI workloads, defining the

ask complex questions and get coherent answers

boundaries within which they can grow sustainably.

instantaneously.

The EU’s new Cloud and AI Development Act requires This is the beginning of a transformation of historic

sustainable infrastructure. To me, the logical next step is

scale. Demand for data center capacity to support

specifying the minimum level that AI facilities must meet. I

AI is booming, along with concerns about whether

propose aiming directly for the highest, Level 5, standard of

resources can handle this data-hungry technology

the maturity model. Ambitious, yes, but necessary. As JFK

sustainably. Governments, media, and communities

said: “We choose to go to the Moon… not because they

are

and

are easy, but because they are hard.” Making AI sustainable

environmental impact. In a previous column, I wrote

asking

questions

about

energy

use

will not be easy, but it is possible. After all, we have already

about an agreement with my daughter, a teacher: she

proven we can achieve the impossible.

helps her students stay sharp and not overdependent

FROM ONE GENERATION TO THE NEXT

on AI, while I focus on making AI sustainable.

It doesn’t feel easy, but I must face reality. I just saw the message on my company’s website that I am retiring.

AI IS COMPARABLE TO AN INFANT

When you read this, I will have reached retirement age and

AI is like a baby taking first steps. It has moved from

decided to reduce my standardization work. My role as

crawling to walking, but it still needs help and a supportive

Convenor of ISO/IEC JTC 1/SC 39/WG 1 Resource Efficient

environment to grow responsibly. Similarly, AI workloads

Data Centers will be transferred in the coming year.

demand reliable, scalable, energy-efficient, and sustainable IT infrastructure. This is why developing a Maturity Model

Much of my work on standards for sustainable data centers

for Energy Management and Environmental Sustainability

will be taken over by a new colleague, Julie Chenadec.

is critical if we want to guide AI’s growth rather than chase

Julie, from my daughter’s generation, has an impressive

after it.

track record with Green IT Amsterdam and the Sustainable Digital Infrastructure Alliance. She represents the new wave

The upcoming ISO/IEC 22237-10 builds on CLC/TS 50600-

of professionals who combine technical expertise with a

5-1, itself derived from earlier work by The Green Grid and

strong awareness of social and environmental responsibility.

the EU Code of Conduct. This five-level model covers management practices, infrastructure and ICT systems. It

That gives me confidence. The baton is being passed, not

provides a clear roadmap for organizations to evaluate and

dropped. With our combined knowledge and continued

improve their sustainability practices step by step.

collaboration, it will be possible to pass on a better and more sustainable digital world to the next generation. And that, ultimately, is the responsibility we all share.

Over the past 15 years, we have developed a comprehensive set of tools to measure performance in data centers: KPIs

51

THROUGH THE EYES OF A PHYSICIST BÉLA WALDHAUSER ON THE FUTURE OF DATA CENTERS TEXT: MELS DEES

For more than 25 years, Dr. Béla Waldhauser has been one of the defining voices in Europe’s data center industry.

Now the CEO of Telehouse Germany is preparing to hand over the reins. In just a few weeks he will step back from day-to-day management, though he intends to remain close to the sector as a board member and advisor. It’s the perfect moment to sit down with him and look at the big questions shaping the future of data centers: energy use, heat recovery, decentralization, workforce challenges, and the rise of specialized infrastructures.

From the first minutes of conversation, Waldhauser’s enthusiasm is unmistakable. A physicist by training, he dives into debates with the clarity of someone who understands both the numbers and the narratives. And one of his main frustrations is how public discussion reduces complex realities to simple headlines. “Everyone talks about electricity consumption,” he says, “but electricity is mistakenly equated with energy. From a physics standpoint, that’s simply incorrect.”

In Germany, only around 20 percent of total energy consumption is electricity. “So when we say data centers consume three to four percent of Europe’s electricity, that’s less than one percent in terms of overall energy,” he explains. And if half of all energy in Germany goes to heating and cooling buildings, the bigger question becomes obvious: how can digitalization help reduce that massive share? “If we seriously want to talk about efficiency, we need to ask how technology can cut into that 50 percent. The effect would be many times greater.”

52

BETWEEN HEADLINES AND REALITY The media, he argues, rarely get that nuance across.

energy against IT energy. A score of 1.3 means that for

“Bad news sells better than good news. The headline

every 100 units of electricity consumed by servers

that data centers steal power from households is, of

and storage, an extra 30 units are needed for cooling,

course, more attractive than the idea that they enable

backup systems, and infrastructure. “That means

digitalization.” Yet our daily lives depend on them.

roughly 25 percent of the consumption is on us, the

“If I send you a WhatsApp, it runs through five or six

operators, while 75 percent comes from the customers’

data centers. But many people believe the cloud is

IT. Hardly anyone talks about that,” Waldhauser points

something abstract that has nothing to do with data

out. To him, it’s a sign of how responsibility is miscast:

centers.”

the weight of public scrutiny lands on operators, while the real driver of demand sits with the users.

Even the efficiency debate tends to miss the mark.

Modern facilities often reach PUE values of 1.3. PUE, or Power Usage Effectiveness, measures total facility

HEAT AS AN OPPORTUNITY If there is one field where Waldhauser has taken a pioneering role, it’s heat reuse. “I started pushing this issue in Germany five years ago,” he recalls. Today, Telehouse supplies waste heat to a Frankfurt housing development that includes 1,330 apartments, childcare centers, restaurants and around 3,000 residents.

“That currently gives me an Energy Reuse Factor of two percent. But the more we expand, the harder it becomes to keep the ratio stable, because heat demand doesn’t grow indefinitely.”

The real bottleneck, he says, lies not in technology but in infrastructure. A recent meeting with Frankfurt’s network utility underlined the scale of the challenge.

To reach climate neutrality by 2040, the city would need to dig up 100 kilometers of road every year to install cables and pipes for e-mobility, heat pumps, and district heating. “That’s completely unrealistic,” Waldhauser argues. “The traffic disruption, the cost, the materials, the manpower: it simply can’t be done.”

For him, much of the political discourse is built on illusion and dogma, while hard expertise is in short supply.

53

EDGE, NEIGHBORHOOD, AND REGIONAL GROWTH When talk turns to the future shape of the industry, Waldhauser insists on clear distinctions. True edge computing, he says, only makes sense where latency is critical, such as in industrial plants or smart city applications. “For autonomous driving, we’ll need containerized

data

centers,

standardized

units

deployed in large numbers. Traditional buildings won’t play a role.”

He draws a line between those edge deployments and what he calls neighborhood data centers: regional facilities that keep services close to customers.

Increasingly,

enterprises

no

longer want

to

be

confined to the big hubs of Frankfurt, London, Paris, or Amsterdam. “We have 750 million people in Europe.

You cannot serve them all from five regions. That’s why we already see growth in Madrid, Milan, Zurich, Warsaw, and Vienna.”

At the same time, new classes of facilities are emerging to handle specialized workloads. Traditional enterprise clients may need just a few kilowatts per rack, while AI and HPC environments are pushing into 100–200 kilowatts per rack. “That forces us to develop different types of data centers for different needs. A one-sizefits-all approach no longer works.”

BUILDING NEW VS. RETROFITTING Asked about converting old buildings into data centers, Waldhauser’s answer is pragmatic: “It depends.” Office blocks, with their weak floor loads and low ceiling heights, rarely qualify. “A rack can easily weigh a ton, plus generators, batteries, chillers. Without proper structural strength, it won’t work.” Old industrial sites, however, can sometimes be adapted.

Still, he prefers newbuilds. Telehouse facilities feature mezzanine floors that carry power lines, cooling pipes, and ventilation ducts. “The result is clean, efficient, perfectly organized infrastructure. You won’t get that in a brownfield project.” That said, existing buildings do offer advantages in speed and cost. “Time-to-market is a strong argument, which is why brownfield remains a valid option.”

56

A CAREER OF PASSION If there’s one theme that runs through the conversation, it’s Waldhauser’s enduring enthusiasm. “I’ve been managing in this industry for 25 years and never lost my passion. It’s a sensational business that keeps growing.”

He’s lived through the dotcom crash and difficult years, but since 2005 the trend has been steadily upward.

“We are highly profitable, we are growing, we can afford things, and we’re having fun.” Recently he even took his entire team to Mallorca for a four-day celebration.

Internationally, his expertise is sought after on boards in Belgium, Spain, and beyond. While stepping back from operations, he has no intention of leaving the field. “It’s simply a fantastic industry where I can help shape the future.”

PEOPLE AND POLITICS Beyond technology, he is outspoken about two broader issues. First, the shortage of talent. Germany, he says, has trouble inspiring young women to pursue STEM careers. “Our school system fails to engage girls in math and science. In Bulgaria, Romania, or France it’s different, you see far more women engineers in the industry.”

Second, the political blind spot. “We’re often portrayed only as power guzzlers. But data centers are the foundation of the economy, whether in mechanical engineering, chemicals, or automotive. Without digital infrastructure,

German

industry

simply

wouldn’t

function.”

LOOKING AHEAD For Waldhauser, the next phase of data centers will be more diverse and more demanding than ever: energy efficiency, heat reuse, specialized architectures, and regional distribution will all play a role. At the same time, education, workforce development, and political recognition must be part of the conversation.

“I’ve lived through the ups and downs of this industry,” he reflects. “Today we’re in a better position than ever. But we must stop defining ourselves solely by electricity consumption. Data centers are not part of the problem, they are part of the solution.”

57

NATASCHA EVERSHEDS SUTHERLAND

GERAEDTS

58

THE PARADOX OF DIGITALISATION & RESTRICTION Looking back, it’s fair to say that the Dutch

In the past decade regulation has often been

regulatory landscape for data centers has never

viewed as a barrier towards a successful and

been easy or simple. From the outset, developers

timely data center development. And for all

always had to navigate strict spatial planning

the right reasons: competent authorities were

rules and environmental standards. In recent

struggling with implementing new (sustainability)

years things became even more complex. The

regulations and were often experiencing lack of

Amsterdam and Haarlemmermeer moratoria in

expertise which not only led to uncertainties

2019 and the national moratorium on hyperscale

but also to understandable frustration on the

data centers in 2022 have been a turning point,

developers’ side. These previous struggles are no

followed by the entry into force of the Planning

longer omni-present. Authorities have managed to

and Environment Act in 2024. Adding increasing

create clarity and build trust and there is generally

challenges of grid congestion and it is clear that

a positive trend towards embracing regulations.

a wish to develop in the Netherlands will demand more than just strong technical know-how. It

When it comes to realization of a data center

requires agility, patience and strategic foresight.

development, regulators, authorities, neighbours and

other

stakeholders

expect

openness,

Our Dutch government celebrates digitalisation

collaboration and a proof of positive impact.

and its economic promise. It also places ever-

Partly due to requirements of participation as set

tighter constraints

very infrastructure

out in the new Environment and Planning Act but

that enables it. The result? Developers face

on

the

it is fair to say that said aspects have become a

uncertainty, delays and a planning system that

sign of the times. Transparency and trust between

often feels more defensive than forward-looking.

stakeholders and all parties involved are nowadays as important as efficiency metrics.

And yet, there is no avoiding the fact that data centers are indispensable. AI, cloud, and digital

If the past decade was about expansion, the next

services do not exist without them. The question

will be about integration — into energy systems,

is not if we build, but how. Luckily the future has

circular economies and local communities. In that

become clearer in recent years. Developers that

sense it may well be a true “back and forth”: we

treat sustainability as a compliance exercise will

have learned from where we have been while we

not survive. Those that embrace it as their licence

move forward with confidence towards a more

to operate – through heat reuse, smart water usage

sustainable future.

and renewable integration – are already shaping the industry’s next chapter.

59

60

ENERGY MARKET UPDATE

Stroomkr8 is an independent energy consultancy company. They support their clients on all kinds of energy sourcing activities, from strategic/conceptual matters to daily and operational practice. They buy and sell energy for their clients in 17 different countries with a team of highly experienced colleagues within both supply companies and consultancy.

More information: www.stroomkr8.nl

61

Energy is no longer just a utility, it’s become even more a strategic risk domain for data centers.

Therefore we will share our view on the energy markets to help you understand the energy triggers and provide support to your procurement decisions. In a world of volatile prices, fragile supply chains, and shifting climate policy, the ability to understand and act on market signals can make or break your energy strategy. This report covers the most critical developments from January through August 2025 and looks ahead to Q4 and 2026. The central question:

HOW DO DATA CENTERS STAY IN CONTROL OF COST, RISK, AND CONTINUITY IN TODAY’S TURBULENT ENERGY LANDSCAPE? The Dutch large-scale battery storage (BESS) market

only know after the fact whether regulation state 2 was

is gaining momentum. At the end of 2024, 350MW was

present, rather than 0, -1 or 1. This means that the costs

installed, with a target of 5GW by 2030. High price volatility

for BRPs (suppliers) are much higher in regulation state 2.

and opportunities related to congestion services

Therefore, the more often regulation state 2 occurs, the

make the market attractive. However, high transmission

higher the total costs will be on the passive imbalance

costs, the lack of a capacity market, and congestion

market.

are hindering growth. Further development requires confidence and supportive policies.

The Dutch economy shrank by 0.3 percent quarteron-quarter (q-o-q) in the second quarter, after also

Renewable electricity is playing an increasingly important

contracting in the first quarter (by 0.4 percent).

role in the Dutch electricity mix. In 2024, solar panels and

According to the current definition, a recession occurs

wind turbines accounted for 45% of annual electricity

after two consecutive quarters of contraction. However,

production

Netherlands

we do not expect a deep economic crisis with sharply

Environmental Assessment Agency (PBL) expects this to

rising unemployment, as we saw in 2008 and 2012. This

rise to 65% by 2030. To achieve this target, approximately

is because the labor market remains very tight. In the

11.5 GW of wind turbines and 4 GW of solar panels must

second quarter of this year, for every 100 unemployed

be added. For comparison, peak electricity demand in

people, there were 122 vacancies. For the remainder

the Netherlands is approximately 19 GW.

of this year and next, we expect modest growth for the

in

the

Netherlands.

The

Dutch economy as a whole.

In addition to rising imbalance prices, trading in this market has become riskier because regulation state 2 is increasingly common. Suppliers (BRPs) usually

62

POWER MARKET European electricity prices rose by 30–40% year-on-year

With the future market still in backwardation power prices

in 2025, mainly due to tight gas supplies and reduced

still provide possibilities for long-term hedging. However

reserve margins, not because of massive new demand.

with the current adjustment for 15 min. spot pricing the

Global electricity use continues to grow structurally, with

imbalance cost might drop and therefore it could be

projections of ~3% annual growth through 2050, driven by

good to wait before contracting long term.

electrification, AI, and digital infrastructure. Data centers consume energy in a steady 24/7 baseload profile.

In general the driver for power has been the gas prices

But today’s market behaves like anything but steady.

in 2025, where the stronger winter period kept the

Midday lows, evening peaks, and imbalance penalties

market constrained and rose to highs we had not seen

have become the new normal, demanding smarter

in the last 12 months. For power the major disruption is

procurement and hedging.

the congestion situation in the Netherlands where grid operators struggle to adjust and expand the capacity

One of the measures to make the spot market more in

for new development or growth, causing the net to be

sync with imbalance prices is the step to adjust the spot

stretched to the maximum and outages could occur at

pricing from hourly to 15 minutes from October 1. The

some point locally.

impact is not known yet but should have a positive effect on general pricing. With the high renewable impact the

Having a good outlook on the long-term usage forecast

forecasting should benefit.

seems to be very important to all high-end off-takers in the market and to plan expansion programs well in time to not be stopped by grid capacity.

EPEX

63

POWER FUTURES

GAS & LNG Gas demand in Europe rose by +6.5% in H1 2025, yet

are looking at weather reports for El Niño and La Niña

supply remains stable. The main driver for the additional

indicators, as gas storage levels are on the same level as

need has been the weather instead of growth. Storage

they were in the same period in 2021. At that time it was

levels are above average and LNG flows are steady, but

seen as being well below the needed level that drove

the market reacts nervously to any disruption. As of Sept

gas prices to unseen highs. Current LNG flows from the

3, 2025, the TTF spot price stood at €32.11/MWh, about

U.S. keep traders at ease and they expect that with the

10% lower than the summer peak, but confidence remains

European deal with the U.S. about energy imports we

fragile.

could be on the safe side for 2026.

The gas market has had a turbulent development as

Therefore it seems strange that the gas prices have not

reactions to the implementation of the U.S. tariffs

been higher, this could be because of expectations of a

adjustments, negotiations about those tariffs, and

recession and in general a larger gas reduction need due

tension in the Middle East keep controlling the news. All

to sustainability programs in Europe. Once again we could

not being clear in what direction the market can or should

expect that the gas prices will jump at any time if supply

move as interpretation shifts and analysts are uncertain.

chain problems (U.S. or Norway) occur. But the worst-

With winter 25/26 approaching it seems most likely that

case scenario would be if temperatures drop strongly in

gas prices will be under pressure for some time. Traders

early November already.

64

GAS IN STORAGE

EU - 50%

Germany - 10%

Romania - 2%

Croatia - 0%

Latvia - 1%

France - 6%

Portugal - 0%

Bulgaria - 0%

Italy - 10%

Denmark - 0%

Poland - 2%

Belgium - 0%

Ireland - 0%

Spain - 2%

Netherlands - 5%

Austria - 5%

Hungary - 3%

Slovakia- 1%

Czech Republic - 2%

65

TTF SPOT

GAS FUTURE

66

CARBON MARKET (EUAS) BACK IN THE SPOTLIGHT After a dip in 2024, carbon prices rebounded to €80/ton

speeds. UKAs also followed the rally, with the December

in Q3 2025. Drivers include ETS2 expansion, increased

contract rising by more than 2% to £54.25, an eleven-week

gas-fired generation, and renewed investor interest. Data

high. Trading was marked by sharp buying throughout the

centers must monitor Scope 2 emissions, as carbon

day, with prices continuing to rise to a peak of £54.50

costs increasingly impact supplier pricing and ESG

late in the session. Despite some resistance, the UK

transparency.

market showed clear resilience after a slow summer and maintained its close correlation with the EU ETS.

In Q1 EUAs reached their highest level, and from September trading began with renewed optimism.

Looking ahead, analysts expect increased trading activity

Several key technical resistance levels were broken after

as compliance deadlines approach and more participants

weeks of limited movement. Aggressive buying pushed

return from vacation. While gas remains the main driver,

the benchmark contract above €74, while strong volumes

regulatory developments and weather conditions could

supported the rise, making it the busiest trading day

bring additional volatility. Some see room for a further rise

since late June. Despite some profit-taking, prices closed

towards €75–76, although there is caution about the rally’s

sharply higher, indicating stronger market sentiment as

staying power. The outlook remains highly dependent on

traders emerge from the summer slump.

macroeconomic signals and gas price dynamics, with the near-term likely to remain within the €70–75 range unless

The rise was bolstered by energy markets, where both

momentum continues to build.

TTF Gas and German Power rose, supported by forecasts of warmer-than-average temperatures and lower wind

EUA

67

GENERAL

ENERGY OUTLOOK

The U.S. remains resilient while China’s growth slows.

Europe needs to invest €3.7 trillion by 2035 to meet

U.S. manufacturing has been contracting, and tariffs

climate targets. With solar growth slowing and policy

add uncertainty for imported IT hardware. China

pressure increasing, data centers need to align with

focuses on AI and digital infrastructure but faces

this shift. Q4 2025 fundamentals appear bullish, lower

structural economic headwinds

storage levels against previous years, uncertain LNG flows to Europe (Qatar, USA), but sentiment remains sensitive. Backwardation in 2026–2027 presents a hedging opportunity.

5 STRATEGIC RECOMMENDATIONS FOR DATA CENTERS:

01 02 03 04 05

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68

FINAL THOUGHT

ENERGY IS NO LONGER

“JUST ENERGY” The market has reset. Volatility is structural. Those who act with agility and intelligence will lead in the next energy chapter.

Energy is no longer a cost, it’s a strategic lever.

For a designed version of this report or to adapt it for internal briefings, contact your energy strategy advisor.

69

ARJAN NLIGHTEN

WESTERHOFF

70

25 YEARS OF DATA CENTERS: FROM COWBOYS TO CARBON COUNTS This month marks 25 years since I left school and entered

Virtualization, containerization, orchestration, and eliminating

the data center industry. The pace of change has been

“zombie” servers all matter as much as optimizing power and

extraordinary. We’ve gone from basic server rooms to AI-

cooling. The most sustainable data center is the one that

optimized, globally distributed, and sustainability-driven

delivers maximum business value per unit of energy.

infrastructure platforms. What began as an industry focused purely on keeping servers running now wrestles with edge

Still, the rapid growth of digital services and AI workloads

computing, efficiency, and technologies unimaginable in

has brought new pressures on energy and water systems.

2000.

Opportunities exist, like reusing excess heat from edge data centers in local communities, but we must never lose sight of

Originally, data centers were designed and managed for one

the foundation on which this industry was built: availability.

thing: availability. That focus has remained, but alongside it, the industry has achieved major advances in sustainability,

Sustainability improvements are essential, but availability must

though there’s still untapped potential.

never be treated as “just another metric.” Major cloud outages today can cripple thousands of businesses at once, evidence

In the early days, it felt like a group of “cowboys” turning a

of how fragile our interconnected systems have become.

hobby into something bigger. That hobby rapidly became a

The simple, more predictable infrastructures of the early

multibillion-dollar industry, fueled by internet infrastructure

2000s have given way to exponentially complex platforms of

investments of the 2000s. Professionalization followed.

microservices, automation, and software-defined everything.

Around 1999, the Uptime Institute introduced the TIER

This sophistication brings flexibility, but also new failure

classification system, giving clear benchmarks for availability,

modes.

the defining concern of the time.

Meanwhile, a generation of engineers has grown up in a culture By 2006, a new lens emerged: The Green Grid’s Power

of “move fast and break things,” often undervaluing reliability

Usage Effectiveness (PUE). This metric, still relevant today,

fundamentals. Many organizations assume cloud providers

underscored the industry’s long struggle to reduce its carbon

have solved availability and let their own disaster recovery

footprint while enabling an expanding digital economy. Over

planning slide.

time, efficiency metrics matured further with ISO/IEC 30134, the global framework that standardized measurement and

I remember when “five nines” was the gold standard that

reporting. This framework has grown vital, informing EU

dictated every design choice. Downtime was catastrophic

directives, national legislation, and ESG reporting.

and highly visible. Today, the conversation often shifts to carbon metrics and cost optimization, leaving reliability in

Thanks to these efforts, and drivers like cost pressure,

the shadows. But without reliable systems, sustainability

competition, and sustainability commitments, efficiency

achievements mean little.

improved dramatically. Where the early 2000s saw PUE averages of 2.5–3.0, today the average is 1.5–1.6, with best-in-

The industry needs a reset: availability-first design principles,

class sites achieving 1.1–1.2. This progress is not just technical; it

rigorous testing, and measurement of uptime with the same

has reshaped how companies plan, invest, and communicate

seriousness we now apply to energy efficiency. Sustainability

their environmental impact.

matters. Cost efficiency matters. But before optimizing everything else, let’s remember the baseline responsibility of

Yet true sustainability starts not with cooling systems, but

our industry: keeping the lights on.

with IT efficiency: maximizing useful work per watt consumed.

71

CONSOLIDATION, CAPITAL & CRITICAL MASS POWER PLAY IN THE EUROPEAN DATA CENTER INDUSTRY TEXT: MELS DEES

The European market for digital infrastructure is at a tipping point that is virtually unprecedented. For decades, the data center sector has experienced waves of consolidation and acceleration, but the intensity with which demand for capacity is growing today means that old comparisons fall short.

Whereas the cloud wave has been the driving force behind the sector over the past ten years, today it is primarily the rise of artificial intelligence (AI) that is shaping the market.

Analysts at CBRE recently predicted that 2025 will be a record year with nearly one gigawatt of new capacity, but immediately added that even that volume will be insufficient to keep up with demand (CBRE, 2024).

Colocation and wholesale prices are rising, waiting times

for grid

connections

are

increasing,

investors are competing for scarce projects.

72

and

GEOGRAPHICAL SHIFTS

THE MAP IS BEING REDRAWN We know that the five traditional centers of gravity (Frankfurt, London, Amsterdam, Paris and Dublin) have long been the safe haven. This is where networks converged, where the ecosystem of carriers and cloud providers was located, and where the bulk of the European roll-out took place. But it is precisely these hubs that are now reaching their limits.

In Dublin, the network operator imposed a de facto halt on new connections (CRU & EirGrid, 2023). Amsterdam introduced a moratorium in 2019, which later resulted in strict zoning rules and mandatory heat reuse (Municipality of Amsterdam, 2020). In 2023, Frankfurt adopted a master plan that pushes new projects to the periphery (City of Frankfurt, 2023). Paris and London are still managing to maintain their role as core markets to some extent, although London is struggling with scarcity in the West London submarkets.

The logical outcome: operators and investors are looking further afield. Madrid and Aragón are now the scene of large-scale campus developments, thanks in part to new undersea cables and cheap solar energy (NIBC, 2024). Portugal is positioning itself as a panEuropean hub via Sines, with almost half a gigawatt of capacity (Start Campus, 2024 – see the article in this issue). Milan is growing rapidly and offers shorter connection times than the traditional hubs. The Nordics are attracting hyperscalers that prioritize sustainability (CBRE, 2024), and secondary cities such as Brussels and Warsaw are benefiting from this trend (KevlinX, 2024).

Significance: the European infrastructure map is being redrawn. Location choice is no longer determined solely by connectivity, but by energy prices, licensing processes and public support. Whoever leads the way in this could become Europe’s new data hub.

73

CONSOLIDATION

SCALE AS BOTH A WEAPON AND A RISK Parallel to the geographical shift, a wave of consolidation

But consolidation also has its downsides. In tight

that has characterized the sector for decades is

markets, it leads to higher prices. CBRE reports double-

accelerating. The merger of Digital Realty with Interxion

digit increases in colocation rates in London, partly due

was a milestone, and the acquisition of Proximus data

to scarcity and construction costs (CBRE, 2024). In the

centers by TINC and Cordiant shows that medium-

cloud layer, the British regulator CMA sees even more

sized assets also have strategic value (TINC, 2023).

fundamental problems: switching barriers, high egress costs (the costs that cloud providers charge when you

Scale is crucial. Larger platforms have easier access to

move data out of their cloud environment) and lock-in

capital markets, finance mega-projects more quickly

risks (CMA, 2023).

and have the purchasing power to conclude long-term sustainable energy contracts. Goodman, a traditional

Significance: scale enables projects, but concentration

logistics developer, is converting its land positions into

of power can be costly for end users. Regulators will

mega-campuses in Paris and Madrid (Goodman, 2023).

therefore have to increasingly monitor the balance

Analysts at NIBC emphasize that innovative financing

between efficiency and market power.

structures are needed to keep European operators competitive (NIBC, 2024).

CAPITAL FLOWS

DEPENDENCE OR EUROPEAN ROUTE? The question is whether Europe can finance its digital

Significance: momentum is building for a European

future itself. Most of the capacity is in the hands of

capital market around digital infrastructure. But the

American listed players or private equity funds such

scale and speed of American investors remain leading

as Digital Realty, Equinix, KKR and Brookfield (CBRE,

for the time being. Europe must choose whether to rely

2025). European initiatives, such as OVHcloud, remain

on this or to accelerate the development of its own

relatively small.

alternatives.

AWS announced a European sovereign cloud with a

Another element is the role of public institutions.

€7.8 billion investment, but the question is whether

The European Investment Fund and CDP Equity are

an American parent company can really operate

participating with PIMCO in a special European Data

outside American legislation (Clifford Chance, 2023).

Center Opportunity Fund, focused on both greenfield

Meanwhile, new instruments are emerging: in 2024,

and brownfield projects (EIF, 2025). This makes digital

the first euro-based securitization for data centers

sovereignty not only a private agenda, but also a public

was realized – €640 million for Vantage Data Centers

one.

in Germany, led by Deutsche Bank and ABN AMRO (Vantage, 2024). This marks the professionalization of the sector, with ESG objectives explicitly built in (Deutsche Bank, 2024).

74

BROWNFIELDS

THE UNDERESTIMATED ALTERNATIVE Although

greenfield

campuses

often

make

the

capital in the coming years, especially now that asset-

headlines, attention is shifting to existing data center

backed structures make this type of portfolio easier to

locations. Analysts have calculated that more than

finance (Dentons, 2025). Limitations: grid, regulations,

70% of global capacity is already located in existing

society.

buildings, often inefficiently (Enabled Energy, 2025).

Retrofits offer an opportunity: cheaper, faster and

Optimism is counterbalanced by practical limitations.

more sustainable.

Grid congestion causes waiting times of 7–10 years (NIBC, 2024). Transformers and cables are scarce. AI

Brownfields are interesting for investors because

workloads require immediate availability. Regulations

permits and grid connections are often more valuable

are becoming stricter: the Energy Efficiency Directive

than concrete and racks. Omdia expects brownfields

requires reporting, Germany imposes heat reuse

to play a key role now that AI traffic is set to increase

(EnEfG, 2024), and non-compliance means no licence

sixfold by 2028 (DatacenterDynamics, 2024). Recent

or financing.

deals, from Arjun Infrastructure to Apollo Funds, confirm this trend (CBRE, 2025).

On top of that, there is social resistance. Citizens and municipalities see data centers as space-consuming,

Significance: brownfields could become Europe’s

energy-intensive “black boxes”. Dublin, Amsterdam

trump card: they deliver capacity faster and more

and Frankfurt have tightened their rules or imposed

sustainably, and fit in with investors’ ESG logic.

construction

bans

(Eversheds

Sutherland, 2023).

For developers, the patchwork of national and local Another attractive feature of brownfields is that they

legislation leads to uncertainty.

are often strategically located near existing network hubs. For latency-sensitive applications, such as

Significance: technological innovations (liquid cooling,

AI inferencing or financial transactions, this can be

closed-loop systems) and compliance-by-design are

decisive. It is likely that this category of projects in

inevitable. But public support will be at least as decisive.

particular will attract a disproportionate amount of

75

THREE SCENARIOS FOR EUROPE THE SECTOR IS AT A CROSSROADS

ONE

THREE

Europe seizes the opportunity. New hubs in

A hybrid path. Southern Europe, the Nordics and

Southern Europe and the Nordics flourish,

brownfields grow, but American players remain

brownfields provide acceleration, and financing

dominant. Europe gains time and develops

becomes more professional. Regulation stimulates

expertise, but remains structurally dependent.

sustainability without stifling growth.

Investments continue, but strategic autonomy

POSITIVE SCENARIO

REALISTIC SCENARIO

remains limited.

THE RESULT A strong and competitive ecosystem in which

The future of European Digital Real Estate is

European players develop niches and hyperscalers

therefore a balancing act. On the one hand, there

consciously choose European locations.

are unprecedented opportunities driven by AI, cloud and edge computing. On the other hand, there are real limitations in terms of energy, space, politics and public support.

TWO

BAD SCENARIO

The winners will be those markets where policy,

Network congestion, regulation and resistance

capital and energy converge – Madrid, Milan,

block growth. Capital and workloads move to

the Nordics and select secondary cities. The

the US or Asia. European governments respond

losers will be the hubs that get bogged down in

reactively rather than proactively.

congestion and social resistance. Consolidation is professionalising the sector, but requires close supervision. European independence is growing

THE RESULT

gradually, not abruptly. And capital flows will

Europe loses its grip on digital sovereignty and

become more diverse, but American dominance

becomes dependent on foreign infrastructure.

will not be broken for the time being.

THE MESSAGE FOR INVESTORS, POLICYMAKERS AND OPERATORS Today’s decisions will determine whether Europe can combine digital sovereignty, sustainable growth and return on investment – or remain at the mercy of global powers.

76

LIST OF SOURCES GENERAL MARKET AND SECTOR REPORTS •

CBRE (2023/2024/2025). EMEA Data Center Outlook & Global Data Center Investor Intentions Survey.

•

NIBC (2024). Digital infrastructure sector analysis.

•

Goodman (2023). European data center projects.

•

Tech Capital (2024). Interview with João Marques Lima.

PROJECTS AND OPERATORS •

KevlinX (2024). Project BRU01, Brussels.

•

TINC (2023). Acquisition of Proximus data centers.

•

Start Campus (2024). Development of Sines hub, Portugal.

FINANCING AND INVESTMENTS •

Vantage Data Centers (2024). Euro-based ABS transaction (€640 million), led by Deutsche Bank and ABN AMRO.

•

Deutsche Bank (2024). TCFD reporting and sustainability strategy.

•

Dentons (2025). Powering Tomorrow: Key Considerations in Data Center Financing.

•

EIF & CDP Equity (2025). €200 million investment in PIMCO European Data Center Opportunity Fund.

LEGAL AND REGULATORY ANALYSES •

Clifford Chance (2023). Regulatory briefings on data centers and legislation.

•

Eversheds Sutherland (2023). Legal updates on energy & data.

•

CMA (2023). Cloud services market study.

BROWNFIELD AND RETROFIT •

Enabled Energy (2025). NextField strategy for brownfield assets, DataCenterDynamics.

•

DCT Project Management (2024). Why retrofit could dominate data center builds this decade.

•

DatacenterDynamics (2024). Analysis of AI inferencing workloads and brownfield strategies.

SPECIFIC SOURCES PER CITY •

CRU & EirGrid (2022–2023). Grid connection constraints in Dublin.

•

Municipality of Amsterdam (2020). Amsterdam data center strategy.

•

City of Frankfurt am Main (2023). Masterplan Rechenzentren Frankfurt am Main.

FREDERIK NIBC BANK

DE HAAS VAN DORSSER

78

EUROPE’S DATA CENTER MARKET: STILL HOT, BUT SHIFTING FOCUS If you have been anywhere near the European data

THE NORDIC ADVANTAGE

center market lately, you will know it is not cooling

The Nordics are exceptionally well-positioned, offering

down. 2025 is shaping up to be another record year

abundant renewable energy, a favorable climate, and

for new supply, yet demand continues to outpace

supportive

it. Vacant IT load and data hall space are becoming

Growing ESG requirements and the surging power

harder to find across Europe, with the squeeze

needs of AI are drawing more operators north. Oslo and

most visible in the FLAP-D hubs: Frankfurt, London,

Stockholm continue to attract interest, but tenants are

Amsterdam, Paris, and Dublin. This growing scarcity

increasingly open to more remote regions with strong

is pushing rents higher.

energy generation profiles. Notably, because local banks

political

and

regulatory

environments.

in the Nordics often focus primarily on renewables such as wind and district heating, international lenders are frequently the ones driving data center financing.

FLAP-D DYNAMICS The FLAP-D hubs remain the anchor of Europe’s data center growth. Land and power constraints are keeping

FINANCING IN MOTION

vacancy rates low and driving lease rates upward. London

Financing structures are becoming more diverse.

and Frankfurt are seeing some of the sharpest increases,

In addition to traditional bank loans, private credit,

fueled by higher construction costs and demand that

securitizations, and project finance are playing a bigger

far exceeds new deliveries. Meanwhile, operators with

role. Recent structured deals have attracted new

established footprints in the Netherlands, Germany,

investors, and more issuance is expected as sponsors

and the UK are pressing ahead with new investments.

expand platforms and fund capital expenditures. Bank

The business case remains strong, but securing each

lending capacity may become more limited over time

additional megawatt now requires significantly more

due to client concentration limits, meaning alternatives

effort. Access to power, permits, and suitable sites has

to bank financing are likely to appear more often.

become tougher than in the past.

Europe’s data center story is maturing at the core while

TIER 2 AND 3 MOMENTUM

accelerating at the edges. FLAP-D remains the anchor,

As Tier 1 markets tighten, tenants are shifting towards

but growth is radiating into Tier 2 cities and the Nordics,

Tier 2 and 3 locations. Berlin, Madrid, and Milan are the

with funding tools evolving to match this shift. Overall,

standouts. Milan’s vacancy rate, for example, is trending

Western Europe continues to be a highly attractive

toward notably low levels—a clear sign that demand is

market with significant growth ahead and NIBC is proud

genuine rather than speculative.

to be a financier of several key players driving this transformation.

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Narvik

AI FACTORIES IN EUROPE Kajaani

Akureyri Keflavík

Estonia Linköping

Latvia

Copenhagen

Ireland

Lithuania

Groningen

Cambridge Bristol

Poznań Amsterdam

Netherlands

Jülich

Germany Prague

Bissen

Paris

Stuttgart Vienna Austria

France

Maribor

Lugano

Bolonga

Italy Guimarães

Barcelona Mora la Nova

Greece

BILLIONS FLOW INTO EUROPEAN DATA CENTERS FOR AI Given the unstable global political situation, countries across the European continent (not only EU member states) are striving for greater digital autonomy. They also aim to close the gap with the United States and China in developing AI models. This ambition is driving massive investments in data centers dedicated to AI development and training.

Some of these data centers are being developed under the umbrella of the European Commission. Since 2024, the EU has been building a large-scale network of AI factories: regional hubs that combine supercomputers with specialized AI infrastructure.

These facilities provide researchers, startups, and companies with access to powerful computing resources. The first round included seven sites in Spain, Luxembourg, Italy, Germany, Finland, Sweden, and Greece. A second round in 2025 added Austria, Bulgaria, France, Germany again, Poland, and Slovenia.

The program involves several billion euros in joint investments by the EU and its member states. Its goals are to accelerate innovation, strengthen Europe’s digital autonomy, and ensure that smaller players also gain access to high-quality AI capacity.

THE PLAN FOR GIGAFACTORIES National AI Supercomputer (City)

EuroHPC AI Factory (City)

Industry Giga AI Factory (City)

Beyond these hubs, the EU is preparing AI gigafactories under the InvestAI program. Between 2025 and 2030, several megacenters are planned, each with at least 100,000 AI processors. Around twenty billion euros has already been pledged. These facilities

National AI Supercomputer (Country)

EuroHPC AI Factory (Country)

Industry Giga AI Factory (Country)

are designed to compete globally with the massive AI clusters in the United States and China.

The European Commission has already received 76 gigafactory proposals from 16 member states and 60 sites. The most concrete plans are shown on the accompanying map. Outside

Industry Giga AI Factory Outside EU (City)

MAP KEY

the EU, Norway is developing Stargate Norway near Narvik, a center running entirely on hydropower and expected to host 100,000 GPUs. Because Norway is not an EU member, this site is marked in a different color on the map.

NATIONAL-LEVEL PLANS In addition to these EU-driven data centers, several countries are also working on their own national AI supercomputers.

Private enterprises, meanwhile, are investing in so-called Industry Gigafactories to build the infrastructure necessary to scale up AI.

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FROM ENIAC TO THE DATA CENTER OF THE FUTURE

In 1945, ENIAC, often described as the first data center, was the wonder of the technological world. It measured 26 meters in length, weighed 27 tons, and consumed 150 kilowatts of power. With 17,468 vacuum tubes, it could perform 5,000 additions per second.

At the time, that was revolutionary, but it required an entire hall and an army of technicians.

Where ENIAC had barely any computing power and was highly inefficient, today’s data centers process billions of operations per second, with thousands of racks in hyperscale campuses, largely automated and increasingly powered by renewable energy.

In this edition of Datacentered, we look far ahead. The impact of AI on the data center sector is a recurring theme. That impact is already enormous. And it will only grow. That’s why we asked three AI models about the specifications of the data center of the future. In their answers, recurring key elements were CO₂-free energy, waste heat that warms cities, AI-driven optimization of cooling and workloads, and quantum encryption for ultimate security. They also predict digital twins.

Drones and robots will largely take over operations, while photonics and edge computing provide speed and efficiency. The models even describe data centers under water, or partly built into caves.

Based on their answers (which we’ve shortened into specifications alongside the designs), we then asked those same models to create a visual impression.

On the following pages you’ll find the visions of GPT, Gemini, and Grok. As a counterpoint and fitting the Back & Forth theme of this edition, we also include a photo of ENIAC: a hall full of machinery that collectively performed less than the simplest mobile phone of 2025.

ELECTRONIC NUMERICAL INTEGRATOR & COMPUTER (ENIAC) 01. GENERAL INFORMATION TYPE

Early general-purpose electronic digital computer

YEAR OPERATIONAL

1945 (publicly unveiled in 1946)

DEVELOPED BY

University of Pennsylvania, Moore School of Electrical Engineering

PURPOSE

Primarily designed for artillery trajectory calculations or the U.S. Army

02. ARCHITECTURE AND TECHNOLOGY LOGIC TYPE

Decimal (not binary), base-10

COMPONENTS

~17,468 vacuum tubes, 7,200 crystal diodes, 1,500 relays

REGISTERS

20 accumulators, each storing a 10-digit decimal number

PROGRAMMING Initially by manual rewiring and switch setting; METHOD later adapted for stored-program use

03. PERFORMANCE SPEED

~5,000 additions per second

MULTIPLICATION ~357 per second DIVISION ~38 per second CLOCK SPEED ~100 kHz pulse rate RELIABILITY

Mean time between failures ~2 days (vacuum tube burnout was common)

4. PHYSICAL CHARACTERISTICS SIZE WEIGHT

~2.4 m high, 0.9 m deep, 26 m long ~27 metric tons

POWER CONSUMPTION

~150 kW (enough to dim lights in Philadelphia when switched on)

5. INPUT/OUTPUT INPUT OUTPUT STORAGE

Punched cards (IBM card reader) Punched cards and lights on control panels No conventional memory; values held in accumulators

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DATA CENTER OF THE FUTURE ACCORDING TO GROK 01. SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY •

Transition to renewable energy (solar, wind) with low emissions; natural gas as a bridge to hydrogen and nuclear, plus carbon capture

•

AI-driven optimization to maintain low Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) amid rising global electricity demand (projected to double by 2030)

•

Compliance with new global regulations on resilience and sustainability

02. COOLING AND THERMAL MANAGEMENT •

Advanced cooling: liquid or immersion cooling for high-density AI workloads

•

Airflow optimization with hot/cold aisle separation and redundant systems

03. SCALABILITY AND DESIGN •

Modular, flexible layouts for expansion and upgrades

•

Hyperscale campuses with large-scale utility partnerships (multi-GW capacity)

•

Edge computing integration for lower latency and rapid deployment

4. SECURITY AND SAFETY •

PHYSICAL SECURITY Biometrics, fencing, surveillance

•

CYBERSECURITY Firewalls, encryption, and redundant networking for 24/7 operations

5. LOCATION AND INFRASTRUCTURE •

Proximity to power grids, fiber networks, and affordable land

•

Cooler climates (e.g., Iceland, Finland) for natural cooling and cost savings

6. AUTOMATION AND AI INTEGRATION •

AI for predictive maintenance, resource management, and optimization

•

Specialized hardware (e.g., NVIDIA GPUs)

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DATA CENTER OF THE FUTURE ACCORDING TO GEMINI 2.5 FLASH 01. SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY EFFICIENCY •

100% CO₂-free, locally generated renewable energy (solar, wind, hydropower)

•

Waste heat reuse (district heating, greenhouses, residential heating)

•

ADVANCED COOLING Liquid chip-level cooling, adiabatic systems, higher operating temperatures

•

AI-optimized cooling for real-time efficiency

•

Energy-efficient hardware and circular economy practices (reuse and recycling)

02. FLEXIBILITY, SCALABILITY, AND AGILITY •

Hybrid architectures combining central, regional, and local processing

•

Full automation of deployment, configuration, and monitoring

•

Extensive use of virtualization, containerization, and software-defined infrastructure

03. ADVANCED TECHNOLOGIES AND AI INTEGRATION •

AI for predictive maintenance, energy optimization, workload distribution, and network tuning

•

Growth of edge computing for low-latency, data-intensive applications (IoT, 5G, AR/VR)

•

Photonics for faster, more energy-efficient data transmission

4. SECURITY AND RELIABILITY •

AI-driven threat detection and advanced access control

•

Strong physical security and a robust cybersecurity culture

•

Comprehensive disaster recovery and redundancy for 24/7 availability

5. LOCATION AND INTEGRATION •

Strategic placement near renewable energy sources and heat reuse partners

•

Clustering for shared infrastructure efficiency

•

Architecturally integrated designs that blend with urban or natural surroundings

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DATA CENTER OF THE FUTURE ACCORDING TO GPT-5 01. SUSTAINABILITY AND ENERGY •

Fully renewable energy sources

•

Waste heat reused for purposes such as district heating and greenhouses

•

Locations in cold climates for natural cooling

02. ARCHITECTURE AND SCALABILITY •

Hyperconverged and modular design

•

EDGE COMPUTING Smaller data centers closer to users for low latency

03. INNOVATIVE COOLING •

Immersion cooling

•

Transparent cooling pipes visible in the design

4. AUTOMATION AND AI •

AI-driven load balancing, fault detection, and energy management

•

Robots and drones for maintenance and inspection

•

Digital twins for simulation and optimization

5. CONNECTIVITY AND SECURITY •

Quantum encryption and zero-trust architecture

•

Biometric access control (iris scan, palm scan, facial recognition)

6. SERVER SPACE AND INFRASTRUCTURE •

Transparent server racks with color-coded LED status lighting

•

Sound-absorbing walls and dust-free overpressure systems

•

Reflective floors for light optimization

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ALBERTO NET ZERO

RAVAGNI ABOUT THE NET ZERO INNOVATION HUB The Net Zero Innovation Hub for Data Centers is a collaboration between Danfoss, Data4, Google, Microsoft, Schneider Electric and Vertiv to select, test, and accelerate the deployment at scale of advanced Net Zero solutions in the AI-era.

The Hub coordinates the joint efforts of data center operators and solution providers to address key challenges in a systematized methodology, to scale the solutions to the whole industry, thereby enabling data center growth and net zero transition.

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HOW THE NET ZERO INNOVATION HUB CONNECTS GROWTH, COMPETITIVENESS AND SUSTAINABILITY sustainability to include sovereignty, resilience, and

REAL PROGRESS THROUGH NEW INNOVATION MODEL

competitiveness, I often hear the same question:

Our first innovation call phases are complete, and initial

DO WE NEED TO SACRIFICE NET ZERO TO ACHIEVE

pilot projects are underway. Members gain early access to

OTHER GOALS? The answer is simple: no

tools and strategies that improve efficiency, sustainability,

As global priorities expand beyond growth and

and competitiveness, from net-zero backup power pilots There can be no trade-off with sustainability. Either

to heat reuse platforms.

our transition pathways deliver on all priorities including Net Zero - or we risk failing on every front.

The Hub is transforming one of the data center industry’s

At best, we would leave the next generation with

biggest challenges - power and grid constraints - into a

problems too big to solve.

springboard for innovation, benefiting both established players and start-ups.

COMPETITIVENESS DEPENDS ON DIGITALIZATION - AND DATA CENTERS

POSITIONING DIGITAL INFRASTRUCTURE AS A POSITIVE CONTRIBUTOR

Competitiveness today is built on digitalization, and

Data centers must be recognized not only as essential

digitalization relies on data centers: the factories of our

enablers of growth, sustainability, and technological

digital economy. Meeting society’s growing demand for

advancement, but also as positive contributors to local

data requires a new way of accelerating innovation.

communities and society at large.

The challenge? Everyone needs innovation. But no one

Achieving this requires industry, policymakers, and energy

wants to take on the risk of building a data center just to

providers to work together, supported by investment in

test new technologies.

grid modernization, renewables, and regulatory alignment.

DE-RISKING INNOVATION, SCALING REAL SOLUTIONS

The momentum is building quickly. For the first time, we

That’s where the Net Zero Innovation Hub comes in. We

exist before, and it lowers innovation costs, accelerates

are building the collaborative ecosystem Europe needs

implementation, and aligns with European directives -

to de-risk innovation and scale proven solutions to

supported by demand from industry leaders and funding

gigawatt-level deployments.

from the European Commission.

We are building Europe’s first coordinated network of

LOOKING AHEAD

testing sites where critical technologies can be validated

No company can reach Net Zero alone. Join us as we build

at scale, including:

the tools and frameworks that will make Europe’s data

•

Clean backup power and on-site generation

center sector both resilient and net-zero

•

Grid integration and flexibility

•

Management power demand from AI-workloads

More results - including an exclusive interview - will be

•

Heat reuse

shared in the next issue of Datacentered. And if you’re

•

Scope 3 emission reduction in construction

heading to Kickstart 2026, let’s continue the conversation

materials

in-person.

are seeing a collaborative testing ecosystem that did not

This isn’t just theory - it’s infrastructure in action.

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TEN YEARS OF DDA: AN ANNIVERSARY CELEBRATION WITH SUBSTANCE When you think of Amsterdam, you think of the AMS-IX

Eielts then outlined DDA’s position: “In the past, the

internet hub and data centers. After all, Amsterdam is

focus was mainly on sustainability and promoting the

the “A” in the well-known abbreviation FLAP. Furthermore,

sector; now we face weightier issues. Take a topic like

DDA is located on one of the city’s most beautiful canals,

grid congestion. DDA must now make a real difference,

and the whole world drinks Heineken beer.

by truly providing direction on how we can enable the future.” He emphasized the collective responsibility. “DDA

It was therefore logical that DDA chose the historic

cannot do this alone. As a sector, we must move forward

Amsterdam Heineken Brewery to celebrate its tenth

together — not from the sidelines, but actively, shoulder

anniversary. A broad representation of the data center

to shoulder. Only then can we make a difference.”

sector attended the event. On stage, Stijn Grove, Managing Director of DDA, and Michiel Eielts, Chairman of

Grove addressed digital sovereignty: “We do not want to

the Board of DDA, shared their vision of the past, present,

be dependent on other countries. That means investing

and future of the organization and the industry.

in our own digital infrastructure, but also daring to choose a long-term vision.”

They addressed the question of which developments will define the sector in the coming years. For Eielts, the

Eielts and Grove looked ten years ahead. Eielts expressed

answer was clear: innovation and the societal impact

his wish that by then, the sector will no longer have to fight

of technological acceleration. “If you look at current

for recognition, but will be naturally regarded as critical

developments, it’s AI, robotics, and digital transformation

infrastructure. Grove shared that hope.“I would like it to

that set the tone. Our sector must form the backbone for

be self-evident why we matter — that digital infrastructure

that.”

automatically gets the attention and focus it deserves.”

Grove stated that the sector is at a tipping point. Not only in the Netherlands, but across Europe. “While the world is changing at high speed, we risk standing still. But that also creates opportunities. We can now contribute constructively to accelerating the energy transition and to strengthening our economic earning power.”

* On the following pages, you will find an impression of the anniversary celebration and four written contributions from prominent DDA members.

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DATA CENTERS AS THE DIGITAL BACKBONE OF SOCIETY The data center industry in the Netherlands has grown and matured rapidly over the past ten years.

Michiel Eielts, chairman of the Dutch Data Center Association (DDA) and managing director of Equinix Netherlands since 2009, reflects on how the sector has evolved, and shares his thoughts on where it’s headed next.

10 years ago, the DDA was founded to represent data centers in the Netherlands. How do you look back at the data center industry then and now?

“It is remarkable. The data center industry is so dynamic.

Yet, you have the idea that the industry has not changed a lot while simultaneously a lot has indeed happened. The scale and speed in which developments are happening have increased. In 2015, the first cloud operators came to Europe and Everything as-a-Service became the new standard. In the years before, we experienced an era that was mostly focused on the rise of online content and social media. You could say that 2015 was the start of a new acceleration era. With the transition from mass consumer media services to the ‘as-a-Service’ model.

This is something you only realize when you look back.

Perhaps because then, challenges occurred day by day.

Whereas now, daily challenges might be more difficult than ever. ”

Could you elaborate on these challenges today?

“If you wanted to build a data center in 2015, you were welcomed by municipalities because it increased employment in the region. Furthermore, innovation was key, since it was seen as the enabler of growth. Nowadays, the tables have turned. There is still some excitement, but the Netherlands has in many ways been restricted in recent years by legislation and other decisions that limit the growth of the industry.”

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What was an important turning point in these recent years?

“The

moratorium

in

Haarlemmermeer

and

the

municipality of Amsterdam in 2019, was an important turning point. Before that, organizations were capable ofdeveloping and investing in their own plans. But since the moratorium, the DDA has become even more important in representing the data center industry and in changing the perception of data centers. Since last year, you see that this image has become more positive due to theDraghi-report that has come bout, about the future of European competitiveness. The Ministry of Economic Affairs has become more focused on the potential of AI and our digital infrastructure.”

But what is your vision on society’s perception of data centers?

“It is important to note that during the COVID pandemic everyone benefited from the excellent IT-infrastructure in the Netherlands. However, in some way, this has not resulted in a positive public image of data centers within society. This observation says something interesting about our country. We strive to be innovative, yet we often overlook the fact that this is not possible without data centers.”

What accomplishments are you most proud of?

“As DDA and industry, we must be proud of the fact that data centers and the digital ecosystem have brought us innovation and have increased consumers’ wealth.

Furthermore, I am proud that since its foundation, the DDA has grown into a trade association that acts as a proactive spokesperson for our industry and has a significant impact on public affairs in the Netherlands. To be honest, I was a bit skeptical at first when the DDA was founded in 2015, but I am still grateful that Stijn (Grove, ed.) founded the association. Together with our peers, we have contributed to the maturation of the data center industry.”

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100

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DATA CENTERS SHOULD SHOW THEIR ROLE WITHIN SOCIETY Data centers are playing an increasingly important role in our digital infrastructure. Elisabeth Hankeln, managing director of Eurofiber Cloud Infra, emphasizes: “Data centers need to make their societal role more visible, we are essential to vital processes.”

meet, as well as existing and new partnerships that we facilitate. For instance, the deployment of liquid cooling requires capital from data centers and their partners. In an expanding industry, however, such investments are essential to ensure continued growth.”

And how can we as an industry become part of the solution for net congestion?

How would you describe the data center market of

“It is a challenge we face together. At a training program

ten years ago?

twenty years ago, I was told about the future of net

“Back in 2015, we went from moving our on-premise

congestion and smart grids,and we are currently living

servers to setting up our servers within a data center.

out those predictions. As a data center operator,

This development marked the start of cloudification.

Eurofiber Cloud Infra has a major responsibility to

In addition, companies shifted from CAPEX to OPEX

demonstrate the vital importance of our role in society.

models. In response to these two trends, hyperscale

Data centers are crucial to normal hospital operations,

data centers began expanding their services.”

not to mention university research on new health technologies. We also need to make sure politicians are aware of the energy efficiency benefits of storing data

How are you anticipating the new challenges we

at centralized locations. Finally, data center operators

face in this industry?

need to do everything we can to reduce our power

“When I started at Eurofiber Cloud Infra in September

consumption to support the grid more effectively.”

2023, our perspective on regional data center operators was significantly different from what it is today. Two things changed this view: artificial intelligence (AI)

One way to reduce net congestion is data thermics:

and net congestion. AI brings new workloads into data

where data center operators redirect their heat

centers and creates new customer segments, while net

load to benefit other facilities, such as residential

congestion can lead to an important role for regional

heating and swimming pools. How could data

data center operators in making capacity available on

thermics affect the future of our industry?

the grid.”

“It is important to note here that data thermics is a challenging process. First, the data center needs to be located at a place where heat grids are being

Let’s focus first on AI first, what will be the impact

constructed, and municipalities are actively working

of AI in the upcoming years?

on this matter. At one of our facilities, we see that data

“AI is here to stay; we are now seeing enterprises

thermics is a very good solution for the surrounding

implementing AI in their daily business processes. The

area. This concept is not a good fit for all locations,

role of regional data center operators is becoming

however, so it remains difficult.”

more important, and not only because of latency. Here at Eurofiber Cloud Infra, we believe that we can handle the rising demand. However, the shift to AI is also accompanied by new requirements for the associated technology, which data center providers have to

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What other steps are data centers taking to increase sustainability?

“Working closely with suppliers, we are exploring how we can use more environmentally friendly cooling methods. Furthermore, there are initiatives to increase the use of hydrogen inside data centers.”

And finally, what will the data center market look like five years from now?

“I believe that private AI will shift to be located closer to clients, and that we will use liquid cooling as the primary source for cooling our data centers. Moreover, I expect that significantly more people will work in our industry and that more women will be working in data centers.

As more diversity in our teams becomes increasingly important, and the pool of new professionals continues to grow, I believe many women will join our industry.”

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A NEW PHASE FOR DUTCH DATA CENTERS Vincent in ’t Veld, Managing Director of Digital Realty Netherlands and board member of DDA, has been at the heart of the digital infrastructure landscape for over 25 years. He reflects on the sector’s inflection points, challenges, and the road ahead for the Netherlands as a leading data center hub.

What has been the tipping point for the industry’s growth?

“One of the major inflection points came in the early 2010’s when cloud-native applications began to take over enterprise IT. Software companies, SaaS platforms, and managed service providers began looking for infrastructure that could scale securely and reliably and that meant building or leasing serious capacity. The

The development of the data center industry can

Netherlands, together with primarily Ireland, became

be divided into three time frames: the early years

one of the first logical cloud hubs in Europe due our

at the beginning of this century, the increasing

geographical location, connectivity rich eco systems,

digitalization after 2010, and the present. Could

access to reliable and affordable energy and access

you describe the development of the data center

to renowned data center service providers who could

industry in these time frames?

deliver a short time to market solution.

“The roots of our sector go back to the late 1990s, when telecom exchanges acted as early-stage data centers.

Both the scale and business critical applications now

At the time, infrastructure was still tightly tied to

being virtualized in datacenter facilities drove up the

customer premises with small in-house server rooms

technical requirements, especially around uptime,

and basic colocation setups dominating the landscape.

connectivity, and security. The market matured fast, and with that maturity came visibility. Data centers

Between 2010 and 2015, everything shifted as cloud computing

went

mainstream,

and

were no longer an unknown hidden layer of the digital

hyperscalers

stack - they became a strategic enabler for both the

entered the European market with their first regional

enterprise IT market as well as the consumer media

deployments. That brought about a major change in

streaming model.”

both the scale and the complexity of what we as data center providers had to deliver.

To what extent have the requirements for data centers changed in recent years?

From 2015 onward came a phase of rapid sophistication.

“Sustainability, performance, and resilience are at

Capacity grew exponentially, ecosystems expanded,

the core of the increasing requirements we’re seeing

and the expectations around resilience, compliance,

across the board.

and sustainability matured. Colocation data centers went from being a backroom consideration to

On the sustainability side, metrics like Power Usage

having a paramount role in hosting mission-critical

Effectiveness (PUE) and Water Usage Effectiveness

infrastructure.”

(WUE) have become industry standards. Customers - and regulators - now expect transparency and continuous improvement. There’s no room left for inefficiency.

In terms of performance, high-density computing is the catalyst for many of the redefining the requirements of running a sustainable and reliable data center.

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The rise of AI and GPU-powered applications is driving

communities. We’ve reached a point where questions

rack densities to levels we couldn’t imagine a few years

of growth, sustainability, and resilience can no longer

ago. What was once maximum 5 kW per rack can now

be answered in silos. In order for the Netherlands to

be as much as 150kW. Latest forecasts even indicate

remain competitive and achieve economic growth,

the ability to run 350kW or even 600kW racks. This

investment

demands AI-ready, ultra-dense, liquid-cooled HPC

infrastructure is key. As sectors we like to grow in the

setups. That kind of leap was unimaginable a decade

Netherlands, such as Life Sciences and Technology,

ago.

have a strong dependency on having access to data

and

further

and computing resources.”

Our facilities have become a vital part of our customers’ value chain - and the bar keeps rising. In addition, our customers expect us ever more to provide runway for future growth as digitization of the economy and society continues. Therefore, it is key for the datacenter industry to provide outlook for growth, and ideally our customer in the same campus environment, allowing them to leverage their network infrastructure and human resource investments already made.”

What has been a major challenge within the industry?

“One of the defining challenges has been how we fund growth. Historically, investments in digital infrastructure were incremental and closely tied to demand. As cloud and AI adoption surged, data center development had to move faster and at far greater scale. That meant frontloading capital investments and adopting new financial models to stay ahead of the curve.

Another challenge is the fragmented expansion we’ve seen over the past decade. The Netherlands became a magnet for digital infrastructure thanks to its central location, strong R&D sector, and deep talent pool. That drew in global players eager to build wherever they could unlock applications and connectivity.

But growth outpaced many of the construction and energy planning frameworks in place. The question now is: how do we align infrastructure development with

long-term

national

priorities?

That

means

working more closely with governments, utilities, and

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development

of

digital

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LOCAL DATA CENTERS: KEEPING UP WITH DEMAND As the demand for digital infrastructure continues to grow, regional data centers have become a vital part of the Netherlands’ digital backbone. Previder, a regional data center operator, is celebrating its 15th anniversary, Pieter de Haer, Portfolio Manager at Previder, looks back at key developments over the years and shares his perspective on what lies ahead for regional players in a landscape shaped by cloud, AI, and sustainability.

How would you describe the data center industry in 2015?

“In 2015, we celebrated our 5th anniversary as we opened our first data center.. At that time, we experienced the switch from clients who went from on-premise to storing their data in co-location data centers. Moreover, in 2015 we started our own cloud platform because we indicated the growth of cloudification in the industry.

This cloudification led to the entrance of new hyperscale data centers in the Dutch market. At first, as a regional data center operator, we were a little bit worried about whether this would affect our growth.

However, clients increasingly adopted a hybrid IT strategy, leveraging both regional data centers for low-latency and privacy-sensitive services next to hyperscale cloud platforms.”

What has been the impact of this cloudification?

“In the past two years, we’ve seen that end-users are more aware of their cloud usage and where they store their data and workloads. An important factor of this shift is the discussion on Dutch and European digital sovereignty. I believe that in the upcoming years, this will definitely lead to the growth of our industry and especially the position of regional data center operators.”

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And how will Artificial Intelligence impact your position?

“I believe that AI is an opportunity for our data centers, but it comes with a lot of new challenges. For example, you need more high-density racks and need to re-evaluate your power- and cooling infrastructure.

The question arises how we as Previder are going to implement this new infrastructure”.

You also need a lot of power to keep up with the demand for AI. How can we manage this?

“Yes. That is why the net congestion in the Netherlands will definitely be one of the largest challenges that the industry will face. Another challenge remains the public image of data centers. Therefore, the role of the DDA to continue to explain to society the value of data centers becomes more important in the upcoming years.”

Sustainability is also a large topic at Previder. Can you elaborate on this?

“Indeed. Last year, we created a two-way heat exchange solution with our neighbours from NX Filtration. A branch with a heat exchanger was added to the return circuit, allowing our residual heat to be transferred to their factory. As a by-product of NX Filtration’s production process, chilled water is generated, which is returned to our data center to cool our servers. Furthermore, we have constructed our own solar panel park with more than 1600 panels.”

What are you most proud of?

“One of the most important milestones is that our data center has received the highest BREEAM certificate. Furthermore, I am proud that companies outside the MRA region are also choosing us for hosting their IT. We believe that the growth we are currently experiencing will continue in the next five years.”

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DATA CENTER SECTOR EVENTS PTC

KICKSTART EUROPE

DATACENTER FORUM

AMSTERDAM

OSLO

03-02-2026

26-02-2026

TIER 1

TIER 2

MOBILE WORLD CONGRESS

DATA CENTRE WORLD (DCW)

CLOUDFEST

BARCELONA

LONDON

02-03-2026

04-03-2026

TIER 2

TIER 2

DCD CONNECT

INFRA AI SUMMIT’26

DATA CENTER WORLD

ATHENS

WASHINGTON

26-03-2026

20-04-2026

TIER 2

TIER 1

DATACENTER FORUM

DATA CENTRE WORLD (DCW)

DCD CONNECT

HELSINKI

FRANKFURT

23-04-2026

06-05-2026

TIER 2

TIER 2

INTERNATIONAL FINANCE FORUM (IFF26)

THE TECH CAPITAL GLOBAL AWARDS

HAWAÏ 18-01-2026 TIER 1

NEW YORK 23-03-2026 TIER 1

LONDON 12-05-2026

RUST 23-03-2026 TIER 2

MADRID 06-05-2026 TIER 2

LONDON

LEVELX BRUSSELS 18-05-2026

13-05-2026

TIER 2

TIER 2

TIER 2

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ANGA COM COLOGNE 19-05-2026 TIER 2

DATACLOUD GLOBAL CONGRESS

SINGAPORE CLOUD & DATACENTER CONVENTION

CANNES

SINGAPORE

02-06-2026

TIER 2

TIER 1

DCD CONNECT LONDON TIER 1

AI & BIG DATA EXPO AMSTERDAM

DCN WARSAW WARSAW TIER 2

TIER 2

CAPACITY EUROPE

DATA CENTRE WORLD (DCW)

GLOBAL AWARDS - DCD

PARIS

LONDON

TIER 2

TIER 1

DATACENTER FORUM

TOUCHDOWN MIDDLE EAST

STOCKHOLM

MANAMA

TIER 2

TIER 1

DATACENTER FORUM

DATACENTRES IRELAND

GARTNER IT

COPENHAGEN

DUBLIN

BARCELONA

TIER 2

TIER 2

TIER 2

LONDON TIER 1

MIDDLE EAST & AFRICA FINANCE FORUM ABU DHABI TIER 2

SYMPOSIUM

CLOUD EXPO HOUTEN (NL) TIER 2

TIER 1: YOU CAN NOT MIS THIS EVENT

TIER 2: INTERNATIONAL EVENT WITH BROAD FOCUS

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TIER 3: SPECIAL FOCUS, MORE NATIONAL FOCUS

SAVE THE DATE

2026 3 & 4 FEBRUARY AMSTERDAM RAI - WWW.KICKSTARTCONF.EU 116