As the world becomes more digitally driven, data storage seems as simple as saving to “the cloud,” but supporting these digital services requires substantial physical infrastructure. To support the expanding demands of a data-driven economy, the UK will need to develop a robust network of data centres.
The rise of data centres and infrastructure demands
Data centres are essential for storing and processing digital information, but they’re energy-intensive, requiring a continuous, reliable power supply. As the UK moves towards a low-carbon economy, the national grid’s ability to meet the growing demand from data centres is critical. Historically, data centres have clustered around London, but with limited land and power, developers are increasingly considering other UK locations.
Our team support data centre developers with feasibility studies, helping them assess grid constraints and potential power solutions. Our comprehensive geospatial surveys enable developers to explore underground cable connections to substations, providing critical insights into the costs and timescales of power delivery—key to ensuring data centres operate with minimal interruptions.
Understanding the data boom and power needs
Back in the 1990s, a floppy disk’s 1.44 MB capacity was sufficient for most users. Today, a single smartphone photo can exceed 6 MB. This exponential increase in data usage has fuelled demand, with global digital data predicted to grow from 32 zettabytes in 2017 to a staggering 291 zettabytes by 2027. (One zettabyte is equal to a trillion gigabytes!) The rise of artificial intelligence (AI), which requires significant energy for data processing and cooling, will only accelerate this trend.
This heightened data demand puts intense pressure on energy grids worldwide. According to the International Energy Agency, electricity demand from data centres may double by 2026. While some countries limit new data centre developments, the UK government has committed to easing planning barriers, signalling an opportunity for data centre expansion.
Geospatial insights for power connection feasibility
Building a data centre requires more than just securing a physical site. The ability to connect to reliable power infrastructure is crucial. UK substations operate at varying capacities, meaning some are overloaded while others have available headroom. At Murphy Geospatial, we leverage Electromagnetic Location (EML) surveys, Ground Penetrating Radar (GPR), and other geospatial methods to map underground infrastructure. Our surveys enable developers to create accurate feasibility studies that detail power connection options for new sites.
Geospatial data also helps developers anticipate and navigate challenges such as natural landscapes, urban infrastructure, and other underground utilities. By understanding these factors before construction, developers can avoid costly delays and optimally plan for the delivery of power to data centres.
The role of geospatial data in a digital, net zero future
The future of the UK’s energy infrastructure must address not only the generation of renewable power but also the efficient transportation of that energy to meet the digital economy’s demands. This includes powering data centres, supporting new housing developments, and rolling out electric vehicle infrastructure.
As the UK aims for net zero, precise geospatial data is crucial to supporting the development of resilient and sustainable data infrastructure. With the right tools and insights, Murphy Geospatial is dedicated to helping the UK navigate its digital future with robust, data-driven solutions that lay the foundation for a stronger, more connected economy.
Key considerations:
- Data centres require a substantial power infrastructure to support digital growth.
- Murphy Geospatial offers feasibility studies to address grid limitations for data centre developers.
- Geospatial data is vital to navigating the complexity of underground infrastructure, enabling efficient power delivery.
- As the UK transitions to net zero, geospatial insights are integral to building resilient and sustainable data networks.
- By optimising for both digitalisation and sustainability, the UK can confidently prepare for its data-driven future.
To ensure your data centre projects are powered with precision and efficiency, speak to our team today.
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