Tech giant @Microsoft bought a 48-acre site at the former Skelton Grange power station site near Leeds to build another hyperscale datacentre as it ramps up investment in the UK.

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The Strategic Move to Leeds

Microsoft’s decision to build a hyperscale data centre in Leeds highlights its strategic vision for expanding its global data infrastructure. The move is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to enhance its cloud services through Microsoft Azure, the world’s second-largest hyperscale cloud provider. By choosing the Skelton Grange site, Microsoft leverages a significant location that offers both historical significance and modern potential.

Lynda Shillaw, Chief Executive of Harworth Group, remarked:

“Since re-listing in 2015 Harworth has successfully completed a number of significant transactions that create value for our shareholders but this sale at Skelton Grange is the Group’s largest to date and is yet another exemplary case study that demonstrates the successful regeneration of brownfield land.”

Understanding Hyperscale Data Centres

Hyperscale data centres are essential for companies with vast data processing and storage needs. These facilities are critical for supporting the applications, websites, and technology management services that drive modern business operations. Hyperscalers like Microsoft are at the forefront of designing, developing, and managing these robust data infrastructures.

Microsoft Azure plays a crucial role in this ecosystem, offering cloud computing services that support the growth of AI and expanded global operations. The planned data centre in Leeds will further bolster Microsoft’s ability to meet the increasing data demands from various regions.

Microsoft’s Continued Global Expansion

In addition to the Leeds project, Microsoft is expanding its data centre footprint globally. Recent acquisitions include a site in Johor, Malaysia, from Eco World, a Malaysian real estate firm known for its sustainable and innovative developments. This strategic positioning enhances Microsoft’s capacity to handle growing data needs and positions it to absorb data overspill from neighboring Singapore.

Commitment to Sustainability and Development

The Harworth Group’s redevelopment of the Skelton Grange site into a hyperscale data centre is a testament to successful land regeneration. Lynda Shillaw emphasized the significance of this transaction in their development program, showcasing their ability to attract diverse industries to their serviced land schemes. “This transaction further builds our expertise to include data centres and evidences the growing spectrum of industries that continue to be attracted to the schemes that Harworth brings to the serviced land market,” she added.

The Future of Data Centres

With data usage soaring, hyperscale data centres like the one planned by Microsoft in Leeds are critical for meeting the growing demand for data processing and storage. This project not only represents a significant investment in cloud infrastructure but also underscores Microsoft’s commitment to sustainability and technological innovation. As Microsoft continues to expand globally, projects like these are crucial for supporting the digital transformation of businesses worldwide.

What Are Your Thoughts on Microsoft’s Expansion?

Microsoft’s investment in the Leeds hyperscale data centre marks a significant milestone in the tech giant’s expansion strategy. As they continue to lead in cloud computing and AI, what do you think the future holds? Share your thoughts and join the conversation in the comments below!

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Harnessing Geothermal Energy for Sustainable Development

The geothermal data center will be located in Olkaria, an area rich in geothermal resources, making it ideal for a sustainable energy project. G42 will lead the initial investment and oversee the construction of the facility. In its first phase, the data center is expected to have a capacity of 100 megawatts and become operational within two years.

Boosting East Africa’s Digital Infrastructure

Microsoft’s participation will establish a new East African region for its Azure products, significantly enhancing service offerings for local customers. Currently, the closest Microsoft data center for Kenyan users is in South Africa. This new facility will reduce latency and improve service reliability, supporting the Kenyan government’s plan to move more services to the cloud.

The data center complex will provide artificial intelligence services and extend cloud services to neighboring countries like Uganda, Rwanda, and Tanzania.

“This is the single biggest step to advance the availability of digital technology in, I think, the country’s history,” said Microsoft President Brad Smith, according to Bloomberg. He further explained:

“This shows what G42 and Microsoft have the opportunity to do together that neither one of us could do separately. I frankly think it shows that what the United States and the United Arab Emirates can do together that helps bring technology to new countries, especially across Africa.”

Geopolitical and Economic Implications

The announcement coincides with Kenyan President William Ruto’s state visit to Washington, hosted by U.S. President Joe Biden. This initiative is part of a broader effort by the U.S. to strengthen ties with Africa amidst increasing investments from Chinese companies like Huawei Technologies Co.

President William Ruto
and First Lady Mama Rachel Ruto
arrive at Andrews Air Force Base, Washington D.C, received by First Lady of the United States of America Jill Biden with full ceremonial state honors, as the 3-day State Visit to the U.S officially kicks off today. pic.twitter.com/VX9phxVUNW

— Sam Terriz (@Terriz_Sam) May 22, 2024

In April, Microsoft committed $1.5 billion to G42, facilitated by the Biden administration to limit Chinese access to AI technology. As part of this agreement, G42 has agreed to sever ties with Chinese companies and adopt U.S. technology, including Microsoft’s Azure, for its AI applications.

How Will This Geothermal Data Center Impact East Africa?

The geothermal-powered data center in Kenya by Microsoft and G42 is a groundbreaking step towards sustainable development and digital transformation in East Africa. This initiative not only enhances the region’s digital infrastructure but also exemplifies international collaboration for technological advancement. We encourage our readers to share their thoughts and comments on this significant development in the tech world.

Photo by Amani Nation on Unsplash

The post Microsoft and G42 to Launch $1B Geothermal-Powered Data Center in Kenya first appeared on Tech Insight.

Unmatched Thermal Performance

NeuCool’s ability to manage extreme heat loads comes at a critical time. AI, machine learning, and high-performance computing are pushing the thermal limits of traditional cooling systems.

“Our team has worked tirelessly to prepare for this day,” noted Josh Claman, CEO of Accelsius.

Over recent months, the company has been perfecting NeuCool’s technology, expanding its partner network, and beginning to take orders for upcoming deployments. With its robust performance and compatibility with existing infrastructure, NeuCool is set to redefine cooling efficiency in data centers and edge computing environments.

Compatibility and Integration

One of the standout features of NeuCool is its adaptability. The system is designed to integrate seamlessly into existing data center and edge infrastructures. NeuCool’s modular design allows for easy installation, whether through water-cooled doors, dry coolers, or other heat rejection methods. This versatility ensures that upgrading to NeuCool does not require a complete overhaul of current facilities, making it a practical choice for many operators.

Sustainability and Efficiency

In addition to its high-performance capabilities, NeuCool addresses another urgent issue facing today’s data centers: energy consumption and environmental impact. The new cooling system is estimated to reduce energy costs by 50%, cut CO2 emissions by 80%, and operate without using any water. These features make NeuCool an eco-friendly solution that significantly lessens the ecological footprint of data centers.

Upcoming Events and Availability

Accelsius is gearing up to showcase NeuCool at Data Center World 2024, which will be held from April 15-18 at the Walter E. Washington Convention Center in Washington, D.C. This event will provide an excellent opportunity for industry professionals to see NeuCool in action and discuss its capabilities with the Accelsius team. For those interested in adopting this cutting-edge technology, Accelsius is currently taking orders, with deployments scheduled to start later this month.

About Accelsius

Founded by Innventure LLC, Accelsius empowers data center and edge operators to achieve their business, financial, and sustainability goals through next-generation cooling systems. With a commitment to innovation and quality, backed by a robust US-based supply chain, Accelsius continues to lead in the development of advanced cooling solutions that enhance data center performance and reliability.

One to Watch…

As the demand for more powerful and energy-efficient data centers continues to grow, solutions like NeuCool by Accelsius are pivotal in advancing the industry. We invite our readers to share their thoughts and experiences regarding the integration of such technologies in their operations. How do you see advanced cooling solutions impacting the future of data centers? Comment below and let us know your thoughts.

Visit our homepage for more insights.  Photo by Alexandre Viard on Unsplash

The post Accelsius Unveils NeuCool: Next-Gen AI Data Center Cooling first appeared on Tech Insight.

Redefining Data Center Capabilities for the AI Era

The Stargate project, which is expected to be operational by 2028, is not just about scaling up; it’s about redefining what data centers can do. With plans to be headquartered in the U.S., Stargate’s ambitious vision encompasses a series of five phases, each designed to progressively enhance the capabilities of AI computing.

This capital outlay for Stargate is more than triple Microsoft’s expenditure last year on servers, buildings, and other equipment, making the project over 100 times more expensive than some of the largest data centers operating today.

Navigating the Power Conundrum: A Nuclear Proposition

One of the most significant challenges facing the Stargate project is its immense power requirements, estimated to be several gigawatts. This demand has prompted Microsoft and OpenAI to consider alternative power sources, with nuclear energy emerging as a leading candidate.

The decision to potentially utilize nuclear power brings with it a host of security and environmental considerations, particularly regarding the handling and disposal of nuclear waste. “Nuclear energy produces radioactive waste such as uranium mill tailings, spent reactor fuel, and other radioactive wastes, which can remain dangerous to human health for thousands of years,” the announcement notes, emphasizing the stringent regulatory compliance required for managing such materials.

Ethical and Environmental Implications

As the project scales, the ethical question of its environmental impact becomes increasingly significant. “What is the impact if our nuclear waste volume explodes 100-fold as a direct correlation to generative computing processing requirements?” the announcement poses, urging a consideration of the long-term consequences of such an expansion.

Moreover, the involvement of nuclear power highlights the urgent need for increased governmental policy and legislation on generative AI risks, a sentiment echoed by numerous sources, including top media journalists and renowned AI ethicists.

What else is Microsoft up to?

Amidst the ethical, environmental, and regulatory challenges, Microsoft’s recent $2.1 billion investment in French startup Mistral AI represents a strategic move to diversify its AI risk portfolio. This investment is particularly noteworthy given the ongoing legal battles over copyright infringement that have embroiled OpenAI, underscoring the volatile landscape of the generative AI market.

Nuclear Powered Data Centers?!

The Stargate project by Microsoft and OpenAI is not just a monumental investment in the future of AI but also a catalyst for a broader discussion on the ethical, environmental, and regulatory implications of such technologies. As we stand on the cusp of this new era, it is crucial for stakeholders across the spectrum to engage in these discussions and contribute to shaping a sustainable and responsible path forward.

We encourage our readers to share their thoughts and perspectives on the Stargate project. What do you think about the use of nuclear energy in powering the next generation of AI data centers? How should policymakers and industry leaders address the ethical and environmental challenges posed by such projects?

Photo by Mike Kononov on Unsplash

The post Microsoft and OpenAI Partner for $115 Billion Stargate Data Center Project first appeared on Tech Insight.

Strategic Investment and Technological Upgrades

AtlasEdge’s commitment to transforming the digital landscape of Leeds is evident in its substantial investment exceeding £13 million to refurbish what was already the largest purpose-built data center in the city.

“This investment showcases our commitment to not just enhancing the existing infrastructure but also ensuring that it meets the Tier 3 standard, thus setting a new benchmark for data centers in the region,” – Giuliano Di Vitantonio, CEO of AtlasEdge.

The facility’s overhaul includes the installation of a new intake substation, state-of-the-art transformers, and switchgear, alongside additional generators and UPS systems. The incorporation of energy-efficient cooling systems and a comprehensive suite of security measures further underscores the data center’s readiness to support high-demand digital activities with unparalleled reliability and sustainability.

A Hub for Connectivity, Colocation, and Cloud Services

AtlasEdge’s Leeds data center is poised to provide a trifecta of critical services: connectivity, colocation, and cloud solutions. By doing so, it aims to cater to the UK’s fastest-growing city economies, meeting the burgeoning need for lower latency, higher performance, and localized digital services. Di Vitantonio elaborated on the center’s significance, “This facility is not just the first of its kind in Leeds but a purpose-built solution to serve the growing requirements for advanced digital infrastructure.”

Implications for Local and Global Businesses

The opening of the Leeds data center has already attracted significant interest from a broad spectrum of clients, ranging from local businesses to multinational platforms and enterprises. Highlighting the center’s impact, David Cusworth, EMEA managing director of Hardy Fisher Services, noted, “The infrastructure that this state-of-the-art data center brings to Leeds is game-changing. It offers comprehensive solutions, from round-the-clock connectivity to exceptional security and carbon-efficient cooling systems, right on our clients’ doorstep.”

AtlasEdge’s Continued Expansion and Future Prospects

The launch is part of AtlasEdge’s ongoing expansion across Europe, with recent developments including new facilities in Hamburg and Vienna.

“Our ability to execute ambitious mergers and acquisitions on a pan-European scale is demonstrated by our recent expansions, solidifying our presence across 19 metropolitan areas in 12 countries,” Di Vitantonio remarked.

Looking ahead…

The unveiling of the Leeds data center by AtlasEdge marks a pivotal moment in the city’s journey towards becoming a leading digital hub in the UK and Europe. With its advanced infrastructure and comprehensive digital services, the facility is set to play a crucial role in supporting the digital economy’s growth, both locally and regionally. We invite our readers to share their thoughts and insights on how this development might shape the future of digital services and infrastructure in Leeds and beyond.

Photo by Bradley Caslin on Unsplash

The post AtlasEdge Launches State-of-the-Art Leeds Data Center to Boost Digital Hub Status first appeared on Tech Insight.

In the ever-evolving landscape of artificial intelligence and big data, NVIDIA has long been a dominating force, especially with its significant growth in the gaming sector and the data centre field. However, the future of the industry could lie in FPGA technology. With Intel and Xilinx leading the charge and major companies like Microsoft and Amazon embracing this tech, FPGA technology may be better equipped to handle what’s coming in AI and big data than traditional GPUs like NVIDIA’s Titan X Pascal.

FPGA Technology vs. GPU: The Changing Landscape

Recently, a group of engineers at Intel published a paper detailing the comparison between FPGA systems and current GPU standards. They concluded that as FPGA technology and algorithms increase, they will become far more adept at handling the big data stress load, all at a lower ops/watt ratio. In layman’s terms, FPGA technology may be the future, with more extensive customizability and capabilities to meet the evolving demands of AI.

The Giants Behind FPGA: Intel and Xilinx

Intel and Xilinx, the top makers of FPGA technology, currently hold 90% of the market share. This dominance, paired with significant advancements in technology, is shifting the balance from traditional GPUs.

Microsoft, for instance, has committed to using Intel’s version of FPGA in all its data centres, while Xilinx recently secured a substantial contract with Amazon for its accelerated AWS (Amazon Web Services).

Why Is FPGA Better?

Unlike GPUs, FPGA technology offers greater customizability and can be better integrated into developing systems around AI needs. The FPGA’s adaptability is indicative of a technology more aligned with the future, potentially rendering the GPU’s industry domination fleeting.

The Market’s Response to FPGA

Xilinx’s contract with Amazon, along with Microsoft’s use of Intel’s FPGA, signals a market shift towards array systems over single processing units. Though this represents a tiny portion of the overall processor field, the signs are clear: FPGA technology is on the rise.

Investment Opportunities: Xilinx as a Smart Money Play

For companies and investors seeking smart investment in AI and big data, Xilinx could be a promising option. Comparing the chance to invest in NVIDIA back in 2007, investing in Xilinx today could yield similar rewards in the future.

Conclusion

FPGA technology represents a crucial development in the AI and big data field. With industry giants like Intel, Xilinx, Microsoft, and Amazon embracing FPGA over traditional GPUs, the trajectory seems clear. The adaptability, efficiency, and foresight offered by FPGA technology could shape the future of AI and big data. What are your thoughts on FPGA’s rise in prominence? Is it the future of processing technology? Share your insights and opinions in the comments below. We would love to hear from you!

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The post FPGA Technology: A Rising Contender in AI and Big Data first appeared on Tech Insight.