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datacenterHawk
Helping people make the best data center decisions possible.
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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.

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.

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!

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.

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.

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.

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.

Feb 12, 2025 • 26min
Land Battle: Powered vs Unpowered in Data Center Development
Our latest discussion features Mike Netzer and David Liggitt, as they explore the topic of powered land in the data center industry. The Transformation of Data Centers: Take a journey through the history of data centers, highlighting the migration from rural markets to bustling cities such as Chicago, Phoenix, and Northern Virginia, fueled by cloud availability zones. The New Era of Data Center Development: Discover the current focus on powered land. Developers are buying up land, supplying power, and selling it for profit. With an ever-growing demand for larger data centers, from 36MW to a staggering 500MW, the landscape is quickly changing. Navigating Challenges in Power Land Acquisition: Not everything is smooth sailing in the industry. Developers face hurdles in obtaining power for land development, as utility companies impose more stringent requirements and costs for site surveys and study plans. Balancing Opportunities and Risks: Enter the world of high stakes and high returns in the data center space. This long-term investment requires substantial capital and expertise, with shifting market dynamics focusing on alternative energy solutions and strategic workforce planning. Key Insights: The US data center market is booming and drawing in a crowd of investors and developers. To be successful, one must understand the landscape, differentiate real versus speculative projects, and make strategic decisions.

Feb 11, 2025 • 19min
APAC Regional Podcast Episode 1
The Asia-Pacific (APAC) region continues to be a vital hub for the global data center industry, driven by rapid digital transformation, growing cloud adoption, and the increasing demand for artificial intelligence (AI) applications. To unpack the latest developments in this fast-moving sector, datacenterHawk recently hosted a podcast featuring Dedi Iskandar, Regional Director – APAC, and Donny Gunadi, Senior Insight Analyst – APAC. Together, they provided deep insights into the APAC data center market, including emerging trends, key players, and the dynamics shaping this burgeoning industry.During the discussion, Donny highlighted significant developments in the APAC region over the past five years. One notable trend is the influx of Western and Chinese hyperscalers entering the market, particularly in countries like Indonesia and other Southeast Asian nations. These hyperscalers—major cloud service providers such as AWS, Microsoft, and Alibaba Cloud—are driving colocation demand and pushing the industry forward.Interestingly, while Australia's data center market remains dominated by Western hyperscalers such as AWS and Google, countries like Indonesia have emerged as particularly attractive markets due to their large populations and increasing digital maturity. Meanwhile, AI-related requirements across the region are also ramping up, especially as both cloud providers and enterprises explore the potential of AI training and inference workloads.The hosts also explored how mature markets such as Sydney, Singapore, and Tokyo differ from rapidly growing emerging markets like Bangkok, Jakarta, and Johor Bahru. Mature markets typically offer robust infrastructure, established connectivity, and higher levels of competition. These regions remain highly attractive but may face growth limitations due to high land prices and limited power availability.On the other hand, emerging markets present unique opportunities. Regions like Jakarta and Batam have attracted significant investments, partially due to Singapore’s moratorium on new data center developments. These markets offer more affordable real estate opportunities and untapped potential, but they also come with challenges such as uneven access to power infrastructure and connectivity hurdles.For instance, Jakarta, with its population of over 270 million, is a prime example of a fast-growing market with high demand. However, as Donny emphasized, different markets require tailored strategies based on local regulations, infrastructure maturity, and availability of land and resources.Among the emerging markets discussed, Melbourne stood out as a promising alternative to its larger Australian counterpart, Sydney. Despite Sydney’s position as the dominant leader in the market—being two to three times larger in scale—Melbourne offers distinct advantages. Donny identified the following factors driving Melbourne's growth:Comparable Population: With approximately 5–5.5 million residents, Melbourne’s population is similar to Sydney’s, making it an attractive target for data center investment.Affordable Land Prices: Industrial areas in Melbourne’s northwest have been effectively converted into data center campuses, offering cost advantages over Sydney.Emerging Connectivity: Efforts to enhance Melbourne’s telecommunication and submarine cable infrastructure are bolstering its competitiveness as a key data center hub.Colocation Providers and Hyperscalers: Major players like Equinix and hyperscalers such as AWS are increasing their investment in the city, adding momentum to Melbourne's rise.This combination of factors places Melbourne as a high-potential market, particularly for data center operators looking for cost-effective entry points with long-term growth potential.

Jan 30, 2025 • 28min
PTC Recap 2025 & DeepSeek Thoughts
Take an insider's look into the rapidly evolving data center industry with this riveting discussion featuring Mike Netzer, VP of Sales and Marketing, and David Liggitt, Founder/President at datacenterHawk. This video delves deep into the industry's hottest topics, providing a comprehensive understanding of the challenges and opportunities currently unfolding.
Key Insights:
Pacific Telecommunications Council (PTC) Conference: The growth in attendance and escalating interest in data centers underscores the importance and influence of this industry.
AI Technology Impacts: Understand the ripple effects of new AI technology on data center design, power requirements, and financial complexities.
Cooling & Design Flexibility: Learn about the challenges and potential of liquid cooling and design flexibility in the changing landscape of data centers.
Credibility & Experience: Delve into why credibility, financial expertise, and hands-on experience are invaluable assets in data center operation and development.
Navigating Market Shifts: Gather insights into the strategic decision-making required to adapt to market shifts and technological advancements for sustained success.
Immerse yourself in this enlightening conversation and equip yourself with the knowledge to navigate the ever-changing data center industry!
Watch, learn, and stay ahead of the curve with the industry leaders!


