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Mar 18, 2025 • 24min

Hyperscale Data Center Evolution: Power & Development Shifts

Get more market insights here:https://shorturl.at/QWTRt-----Welcome to the datacenterHawk podcast—a deep dive into the ever-evolving world of data centers and the exciting progress in hyperscale development. In this enlightening episode, join hosts Mike Netzer, VP of Sales and Marketing, and David Liggitt, President and Founder, at datacenterHawk as they unravel the complexities, trends, and future strategies shaping the industry. Whether you're a veteran insider or just beginning to explore this high-energy sector, this episode is brimming with insights that promise to elevate your understanding and keep you abreast of the latest industry developments.Understanding Hyperscale: A Definition and Its Impact We kick off with a foundational exploration into what truly constitutes "hyperscale" in today's data-driven economy. These are not just your typical data centers; they're expansive campuses with gigawatt capabilities crucial for giants like tech conglomerates, financial institutions, and government agencies. Understanding how these mammoth facilities differ from traditional colocation data centers is critical for grasping the current and future dynamics of the industry. This episode serves as your guide into this essential distinction.The Dual Strategy: Leasing vs. Building A significant portion of the discussion centers on the strategic decision-making involved in the leasing versus building of data centers. Historically known for constructing their own massive sites, hyperscale companies are increasingly shifting towards leasing—a trend shift that's gained momentum since 2017. With leasing becoming the prevalent approach by 2022, this decision dynamic is driven by the complexities of demand forecasting and capacity planning. Our hosts delve into the anticipated equilibrium that companies might strike in the coming years between these two strategies, providing listeners with keen predictions and insights.Geographical Shifts and Market Expansion As the hyperscale beast grows, so does its geographical appetite. Mike and David probe into the emerging data center markets across the United States, beyond the traditional hubs like Northern Virginia. The expansion into areas with more favorable power availability marks a strategic pivot that reflects the industry's robust growth and expansion ambitions. This segment shines a light on the careful planning and strategic thinking that fuel these market shifts, opening new avenues for future development.Challenges and Opportunities in the Hyperscale Space Navigating new terrains comes with its own set of hurdles, and the podcast doesn't shy away from these realities. The complexities of labor markets, logistical challenges, and the uncertainties of venturing beyond established hubs are dissected with precision. Yet, within these challenges lie amazing opportunities for investors and service providers to align with hyperscale expansion needs. This discussion equips listeners with the knowledge to foresee and embrace these opportunities within the rapidly evolving landscape.In conclusion, the hyperscale transformation is a powerful testament to the data center industry's rapid expansion and adaptation. As these giants continue their formidable growth, staying informed about the latest trends is non-negotiable for anyone in the space. The Data Center Hawk podcast offers expert analysis and deep dives to empower you with the tools you need to thrive. Whether you're looking to invest, provide services, or simply stay ahead of the curve, this episode is a rich resource, propelling you toward success in the vibrant world of data centers.
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Mar 18, 2025 • 11min

Santiago Data Center Market Overview - Latin America Regional Podcast: Ep 3

Get more market insights here:https://shorturl.at/QWTRt-----Navigating the Latin American Data Center: A Closer Look at Santiago, ChileWelcome back to another episode of our Latin American Podcasts where we explore the intricacies of data center real estate and investments. Steve Sasse and Daniel Correia discuss Santiago, Chile—a major player in Latin America's data center market. Santiago’s Growing Data Center MarketSantiago is Latin America's second-largest data center hub, with a staggering 300MW of conditioned power across colocation and self-built facilities. The city has an additional 50MW under construction and 200MW in the pipeline, solidifying its role as a regional leader. Chile’s robust communications infrastructure, stable regulatory environment, and abundant renewable energy sources make it an attractive destination for major industry players like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft. These companies are expanding rapidly in the region, drawn by strong fiber connectivity and favorable business policies. Opportunities and Challenges for InvestorsWhile Santiago offers numerous advantages, potential investors should be prepared for challenges, particularly with permit acquisition, which can take up to two years. Land and energy costs in Santiago are higher compared to Sao Paulo but remain competitive within the region. On the upside, Chile’s transition from coal to renewable energy sources like hydropower, wind, and solar is a significant factor for sustainability-focused investors. Additionally, the announcement of a new submarine cable system linking Santiago with Australia is set to enhance latency between Latin America and the Asia Pacific, further boosting the city’s appeal. Future Outlook for SantiagoEfforts to improve inter-regional connectivity, such as fiber connections linking Santiago to Buenos Aires and Sao Paulo, will further strengthen its position as a digital hub. Despite geographical challenges posed by the Andes and Amazon jungle, Santiago continues to thrive as a critical player in Latin America’s digital economy. We predict sustained growth over the next 3 to 5 years, driven by hyperscale interest and the regional expansion of cloud and AI services. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll take a closer look at Mexico’s data center market!
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Mar 18, 2025 • 13min

Future Data Center Opportunities - North America Regional Podcast: Ep 3

Get more market insights here:https://shorturl.at/QWTRtLinks to our other videos talking more about different deal structures:https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=pt4hMec2LbMhttps://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ZOlZVLgrMNI-----Ed Socia, Insight Director of North America at datacenterHawk, together with Montana Myer, Senior Insight Analyst, took us through an invaluable journey in the third episode of our North American regional podcast. With the aim of enhancing decision-making around data centers, we discussed upcoming opportunities in North America and the changing dynamics of deal structures in the data center market.Decoding Deal Structures In the evolving North American data market, deal structures play a critical role in shaping agreements between parties. These structures outline terms such as lease durations, pricing models, and flexibility, which are especially important in colocation leases. Understanding the nuances of deal structures helps businesses navigate negotiations more effectively and align agreements with their operational needs.Unraveling the Traditional to the EmergingIn the conventional data center lease market, the most prevalent deal structure has been the modified gross type. This essentially includes an agreed asking rate between the provider and the tenant plus a monthly energy cost. However, as Montana pointed out, there seems to be a shift taking place within the market. The emergence of new deal structures is a notable area of exploration.Navigating the Shift in Deal StructuresDiving deeper into understanding this shift in deal structures, it becomes clear that the market is heading for more sophisticated models. We are starting to see more shell deals and yields on cost being signed, pointing towards an emerging trend.Opportunities on the HorizonAs these new trends take shape in the market, it makes one ponder about the potential opportunities this shift could bring. As evident from our discussion, there appears to be a rising number of opportunities presenting themselves as the data center market continues to evolve.In conclusion, we at datacenterHawk are committed to providing you with the most insightful trends and knowledge in the data center real estate market. Our platform, backed by an experienced team, is designed to provide you with the data center real estate intelligence you need to make informed decisions. Tune into our podcasts, explore our blog posts, and let's navigate the data center real estate frontier together!
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Mar 18, 2025 • 15min

Building Indonesia's Digital Future with SM+

Get more market insights here:https://shorturl.at/QWTRtIn a recent roundtable discussion, Donny Gunadi, our Senior Insight Analyst based in Melbourne, had the pleasure of speaking with Mr. Avnish Patankar, the Chief Business Officer of SM+. SM+ is revolutionizing the local industry with its high-tech solutions, particularly in the colo space. They've introduced a fully connected edge network data center which spans across 24 cities in Indonesia and will soon unveil their new flagship data center. Aimed at connecting content and cloud providers with Indonesia's large internet population (240 million users), SM+ is decidedly focusing on bringing content providers closer to users.The Impact of Deep Learning on Data Center InfrastructureEvery industry player in the data center space has likely uttered the word 'AI' in their conversations at some point in the past years - largely due to the significant impact of deep learning on the industry. As we emerged from the Covid era into a time where data consumption skyrocketed due to increased online activities, the demand for high-performance computing rose, calling for data centers equipped with hybrid cooling. This was largely influenced by the introduction of DCGPT into the market - an algorithm that changed the game entirely. As a result, the industry has seen an uptake in AI use cases in enterprises, indicating rising demands for advanced data centers to support high-density deployments.Forecasting the Future of Indonesia’s Data Center Market2024 was a thrilling year for Indonesia's data center industry. With exponential growth in cloud adoption, subsequent cloud deployments, and new data center platforms, the demand for more capacity across Indonesia, particularly in emerging cities, became increasingly apparent. This growth in the sector is set to continue into 2025 and beyond, particularly with the rollout of 5G and increased internet penetration in remote areas. By SM+'s own account, the Indonesian data center market in 2025 can be summed up in two words: high growth and transforming. With continuous investments flowing in, it's the perfect time to build a robust digital infrastructure for this rapidly developing nation.
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Mar 18, 2025 • 21min

Building and Operating Data Centers - EMEA Regional Podcast: Ep 2

Get more market insights here:https://shorturl.at/QWTRtDive into the world of datacenter insights with Luis Bravo, Sr. Insight Analyst, and David Sandars, Regional Director of EMA, as they navigate important topics in the data center space. Datacenter Market Conditions The conversation is kicked off with a close look at current datacenter market conditions. This segment provides a deep understanding of the current landscape and offers insights into future trends. From discussing the shifts in the market to analyzing the customer patterns, this part of the video provides a comprehensive overview of today's data center market.Construction Trends and Emerging TechnologiesOur Hosts focus on construction dynamics and the advent of new technologies. They notably discuss the industry’s shift from speculative construction to building only after securing tenants. This transformation is driven by the high costs and risks associated with large-scale projects.Navigating European Regulations and Infrastructure ChallengesGetting into the nitty-gritty of pan-European issues, they uncover the complexities of securing land and managing power capacity across different countries. They also touch upon the challenges of navigating through diverse and often stringent regulations in various European nations.Changing Public Perception about Data CentersThe duo emphasizes the crucial need for reshaping public perception about data centers. They propose that gaining support from local authorities and communities goes a long way in facilitating smoother operations and reducing resistance.Adapting to Technological Advancements: Liquid Cooling and MoreFinally, our experts explore the impact of new technologies like liquid cooling on construction projects. They underscore the urgent necessity for operators to adapt their strategies, especially considering the increasing cabinet densities and fast-paced evolution of technology.Watch this insightful discussion to stay updated on the data center industry's future.
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Feb 28, 2025 • 26min

How to Assess Your Industrial Sites for Data Center Development

Get more market insights here:https://shorturl.at/QWTRtIn this video, Mike Netzer, VP of Sales and Marketing, and David Liggitt, President and Founder of datacenterHawk,​ share insights into the critical factors that influence successful data center site evaluation and development. Whether you're a real estate professional, developer, or decision-maker in the technology field, the topics covered will offer you a comprehensive understanding of what it takes to choose the right location for a data center.Key Evaluation Criteria for Site SelectionThe video breaks down the three primary pillars of data center site evaluation—power, connectivity, and location. Experts discuss the availability of reliable power grids, high-speed internet connectivity, and how proximity to urban centers or key infrastructure plays a role in site viability.Understanding Data Center Risks and ChallengesAn in-depth focus is placed on potential hazards and risks that could impact a data center project. From environmental factors like flooding and seismic activity to legislative and zoning challenges, every major risk is unpacked to help viewers make informed decisions.The Role of Scoring SystemsA detailed explanation is provided on how data center site scoring systems work. The video highlights how these systems quantify and prioritize factors such as cost, accessibility, climate conditions, and long-term scalability to deliver a transparent assessment of site potential.Get ready to gain actionable knowledge and a strategic edge in the competitive world of data center development!
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Feb 28, 2025 • 13min

Evolving Infrastructure and Demand – Asia Pacific Regional Podcast: Ep 2

Get more market insights here:https://shorturl.at/QWTRtThis video features Dedi Iskandar, the Regional Director for Asia Pacific at datacenterHawk, and Donny Gunadi, Senior Insight Analyst for Asia Pacific at the same company. Their joint experience and knowledge offer an invaluable insight into the diverse and complex data center market in the Asia Pacific region.Understanding the APAC Data Center Market- Dedi Iskandar highlights the diversity and complexity of the Asia Pacific data center market which stretches across approximately 33 countries.- He delves into the variables that make this region unique, such as differing demographics, varying levels of internet penetration, and the maturity of markets within the region.- The importance of cloud, AI, and content in driving the data center industry in Asia-Pacific is emphasized, highlighting the ever-growing digitization of the contemporary world.- Dedi identifies notable growth potential and challenges in various countries within the region, such as Singapore, Malaysia, Indonesia, and Australia.AI and the Adoption of Data Center Colocation Services- Donny Gunadi discusses the impact of AI on the adoption of data center colocation services in the region.- He outlines the challenges and opportunities presented by AI applications in data centers, such as the demand for increased processing power and cooling requirements.- The discussion also spotlights the role of hyperscale cloud providers in encouraging the adoption of AI technologies in data centers.ConclusionThis enlightening discussion between Dedi Iskandar and Donny Gunadi gives us an exclusive look into the complexities of the Asia Pacific data center market. They outline the pivotal role of cloud, AI, and content in the industry while illustrating the potential for growth and the challenges faced in different countries within the region.Do watch the video for a closer look at how AI is influencing the adoption of data center colocation services and how increased processing power and cooling requirements are changing the game.
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Feb 28, 2025 • 18min

Bogota Data Center Market Overview - Latin America Regional Podcast: Ep 2

Get more market insights here:https://shorturl.at/QWTRtWelcome to episode 2 of our industry insight series, where Steve Sasse, our Regional Director for Americas, and Daniel Correia, Senior Insight Analyst at DatacenterHawk, deep dive into the vibrant LATAM data center market.Understanding the Market Size and Major PlayersIn this section, Daniel shares some critical figures outlining Bogota's data center prowess. With a commissioned power capacity of 37 megawatts and another 60 in the pipeline, Bogota's digital infrastructure is thriving. Exploring the Benefits of Zona FrancaZona Franca, located in Bogota, stands as a beacon of opportunity for data center operators. The area offers attractive tax and regulatory perks like tax exemptions and reduced import/export duties that help operators lower operational costs and cultivate a welcoming business environment.Unlocked Market Potential and the Role of PoliticsOur experts believe that Bogota holds untapped potential for growth, particularly post the 2026 elections. Political matters such as tax reforms and foreign direct investments shape the landscape of the data center industry in Colombia. As the market readies for an expansion phase, data center providers are already preparing to cater to the expected surge in demand.Harnessing Renewable Energy and Exploring Expansion PossibilitiesFinally, the conversation shifts to Colombia's use of renewable energy sources and expansion plans. With hydro as their primary renewable energy source and increasing investments in wind and solar, Colombia is leading the sustainability race. Moreover, while Bogota holds the majority of the data center market share, other cities like Medellin and Cali are on the radar for potential edge data center expansions in the near future.Tune in to the full episode for more detailed insights into the Bogota Columbia market and its promising future.
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Feb 20, 2025 • 23min

Understanding Powered Shell Data Centers

When it comes to the data center industry, staying informed about evolving development models is critical. And recently, Powered Shells have gained significant attention in the market.We sat down with industry experts David Liggitt and Mike Netzer to discuss the rise of Powered Shell data centers and their role in meeting today’s increasing demand for efficient and adaptable infrastructure. This blog explores everything from the history of Powered Shells to the benefits they offer end-users, data center operators, and developers.What is a Powered Shell?A Powered Shell is a purpose-built, secure data center facility that includes the physical structure, power to the site, and connectivity options, such as proximity to fiber providers. However, it omits critical IT infrastructure like UPS (Uninterruptible Power Supply) systems, generators, and cooling systems, allowing end-users to install their own components.This model contrasts with Turnkey Data Centers, which include all necessary IT equipment, ready for immediate operation. Powered Shells provide a flexible and cost-effective alternative, with leasing arrangements typically based on square footage rather than the industry-standard price per kilowatt (kW).Why Are Powered Shells Gaining Popularity Now?The modern data center landscape looks vastly different from that of a decade ago. Key factors contributing to the renewed interest in Powered Shells include:1. Hyperscale InvestmentBig-name companies like Amazon, Microsoft, Google, and Meta are making massive investments in data center infrastructure—announcing plans to spend $100 billion, $80 billion, $75 billion, and $60–80 billion respectively. This surge in demand for scalable solutions drives innovative approaches like Powered Shell development.2. Speed to MarketTo keep up with rapid growth, companies are seeking faster ways to bring data center capacity online. Powered Shells provide an advantage by allowing end-users to set up critical infrastructure and operations in less time.3. Flexibility and CustomizationUnlike Turnkey models, Powered Shells offer end-users the flexibility to install and manage their own IT, power, and cooling equipment. This approach is particularly appealing to organizations with unique requirements, such as liquid cooling or customized design preferences.4. Capital Allocation EfficiencyFor many businesses, building a full Turnkey data center is cost-prohibitive. Powered Shells reduce upfront capital demands while still delivering a secure, scalable solution.Geographic Trends and Market AdoptionPowered Shell developments have historically been concentrated in key markets like Northern Virginia, which accounts for approximately 100 of the 130 Powered Shell deals tracked globally. However, this model is gaining traction in other regions due to constraints around land availability, power, and evolving end-user needs.Developers and operators looking to expand internationally should also monitor markets like Europe. For example, a recent €200 billion investment in France for AI and data center infrastructure highlights the growing demand beyond the U.S.Looking AheadAs data center deals grow in size—often exceeding hundreds of megawatts—hybrid models combining Powered Shell and Turnkey facilities are becoming increasingly common. These arrangements allow developers to balance capital allocation while meeting diverse client needs.Powered Shells also provide a natural entry point for industrial developers entering the data center market. By leveraging their expertise in building large-scale industrial sites, these developers can adapt their portfolios to serve the growing digital infrastructure sector.
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Feb 18, 2025 • 26min

Data Center Challenges and Opportunities with Santiago Suinaga, CEO of iMasons

Santiago Suinaga, CEO of Infrastructure Masons (iMasons), discusses the rapid evolution of the data center industry. He highlights the 'Four Ps' challenges: Power constraints are pushing developers to seek nontraditional markets. The talent gap is a pressing issue, emphasizing the need for skilled professionals. He also addresses the industry's perception, advocating for greater public awareness. Additionally, Santiago shares insights on innovative energy solutions and collaboration's vital role in overcoming these hurdles and ensuring future growth.

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