Key Takeaway
To meet the rising demand for data centers driven by AI technologies, the UK must address short- to medium-term power needs while planning long-term infrastructure reforms. Aggreko emphasizes the importance of procurement strategies, noting challenges in sourcing permanent decentralized energy equipment. They recommend temporary equipment hire as a viable solution to avoid construction delays caused by grid connection issues. Project stakeholders should explore diverse energy procurement strategies and leverage third-party expertise to access scalable, energy-efficient technologies, ensuring timely facility commissioning and meeting project deadlines.
“While long-term planning reforms will facilitate the delivery of the necessary infrastructure to support facilities managing AI-intensive workloads, immediate power solutions are essential in the short to medium term.
“This is crucial for ensuring that UK data centre construction can keep pace with soaring demand and capitalize on the significant investments associated with AI technologies.”
The Importance of Procurement and Vendor Strategy
One of Aggreko’s primary concerns focuses on procurement.
Securing permanent decentralized energy equipment in Tier 1 and Tier 2 markets can be challenging, as supply chains have historically posed obstacles to adoption.
Consequently, the company is urging operators to consider temporary equipment rentals as a viable interim solution.
“Data centre construction and commissioning must proceed as smoothly as possible to bring facilities online within strict project timelines,” Billy states. “However, delays in grid connections and a lack of available decentralized energy solutions for outright purchase may result in missed deadlines.
“Ultimately, power is power, whether sourced from the grid or a rented generator.
“Therefore, it is crucial for project stakeholders and facility operators to explore various strategies for procuring the necessary energy supplies.
“Utilizing third-party expertise within supply chains can enable these organizations to access the knowledge and capacity needed to quickly deploy energy-efficient and scalable technologies on a rental basis, allowing them to meet specific site requirements.”
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