With data powering every aspect of modern life, data centres are vital to safely storing precious information. In 2022 alone, the world used and consumed 94 zettabytes of data. This data usage is being driven by rapid digitalisation in many developing economies, social media and data-driven innovations including artificial intelligence (AI). Because technology is becoming more accessible, affordable and necessary in today’s world, the demand for data storage will increase. In response to this, Colt DCS is expanding its global strategy in line with increased demand.
The importance of location and land banking
Data consumption is most concentrated in densely populated urban areas, such as London, Mumbai and Tokyo, so there is a need for hyperscale data centres to be built close by. However, the rapid expansion of these cities means that land is often difficult to secure. To work around this, data centre operators need a solid land banking strategy to secure space in prime locations. As well as accessibility, operators must also consider how well connected the area is in terms of amenities, as data centres consume large amounts of power and water in their daily operations. Finally, in certain locations, data centre operators need to consider the stability of the region in terms of politics and natural disasters. Because the information stored is often business critical, data centres must be built in the safest possible locations to avoid disruption to service.
In anticipation of customer needs, Colt DCS recently announced a fourth data centre opening in Inzai, Japan, Colt Tokyo Inzai 4. Located North-East of Tokyo, this is one of the most competitive areas of data centre real estate for enterprise, research, and technology customers. This facility serves one of the world’s fastest-growing cities and is well-equipped to offer a secure, always-on service.
Sustainable Data Centre design
Additionally, much in the same way as we’re seeing in all areas of technology, data centres are also looking to reduce their environmental impact. Rather than simply looking at direct emissions, data centre companies are evaluating all the materials and companies involved with their business in order to reduce their carbon footprint as much as possible.
Therefore, before even beginning a data centre build, operators must look to the most sustainable and environmentally materials available. The environmental credentials of any contractors must also be considered to ensure that they are in line with overall company strategy. To get the facility up and running, many data centre operators are now looking for alternate sources of fuel to reduce emissions, such as solar, wind or hydroelectric power.
To hold themselves accountable, leading operators are now looking for sustainability certifications to ensure that effective practices are being put in place. As a leading data centre operator, Colt DCS uses 100% renewable energy in Europe. This dramatically reduces emissions targets and puts Colt DCS on track to be carbon net zero by 2045 or sooner.
Ensuring that data centres are built in the greenest and safest manner possible ultimately fosters transparency and trust throughout the industry. As data centres are being built rapidly to meet the demands of digital transformation, operational best practice is necessary to guarantee that they are working in the most effective way.
This in turn impacts operators’ ability to provide excellent customer service. At Colt DCS, all data centres and operations are run to the same impeccable standard to ensure that customers receive the same level of service, no matter the region. Even as these operations expand, this fundamental commitment to quality will remain and ensure that Colt DCS remains at the forefront as a leading operator.
