In a recent discussion, datacenterHawk's Regional Director for the Americas, Steve Sasse, sat down with Pablo Amarelle, General Manager of Zonasur, to explore the burgeoning data center landscape in Argentina. The conversation provided a detailed analysis of why Argentina, despite being the third-largest economy in Latin America, has lagged in digital infrastructure and how recent shifts are positioning it for significant growth. Amarelle offered an insider's perspective on the unique advantages of the Bahía Blanca region and the strategic role of Zonasur's free trade zone in attracting large-scale investment.

Historically, Argentina's digital infrastructure development has been hindered by economic instability, high inflation, and capital controls. Amarelle explained that these factors created uncertainty, which is detrimental to the long-term, capital-intensive nature of data center projects. However, a new political and economic landscape is changing perceptions. With capital controls being lifted and growing geopolitical support, investors are now viewing Argentina as a prime opportunity for growth, ready to address the existing lack of modern infrastructure.

A significant portion of the discussion focused on the strategic benefits of developing data centers in Bahía Blanca. Amarelle highlighted two key differentiators: power availability and the free trade zone (FTZ) tax regime. Bahía Blanca is an "exporter node" of electricity, generating over two gigawatts and poised for more with upcoming wind farm projects. This local abundance of power mitigates transmission bottlenecks seen elsewhere. Furthermore, operating within the Zonasur FTZ exempts data centers from a 27% value-added tax on energy and eliminates import duties on equipment, providing immense cost savings and certainty for investors.

Addressing another critical infrastructure pillar, Amarelle confirmed that Bahía Blanca is a major connectivity hub. It serves as a node for multiple carriers, with redundant fiber routes connecting to Buenos Aires and the subsea cable landing station in Las Toninas. The latency to Buenos Aires is an impressive 5.5 to 7 milliseconds, making it a viable location for latency-sensitive applications. This combination of robust power, a favorable tax structure, and strong connectivity positions the region as an ideal alternative to congested primary markets, allowing developers to scale efficiently.

The dialogue between Sasse and Amarelle painted a compelling picture of a market at a turning point. For data center operators and investors, Argentina represents a market with untapped potential, a highly skilled workforce, and a growing knowledge economy. The strategic groundwork laid by organizations like Zonasur in Bahía Blanca provides a clear, de-risked path for entry, offering the power, connectivity, and financial incentives necessary to support the next wave of digital infrastructure development in Latin America.

Overcoming Past InstabilityThe Power and Tax Advantage of Bahía BlancaConnectivity and Strategic Location

The data center industry's approach to power is undergoing a major transformation. What was once a straightforward connection to the grid has become a complex, strategic challenge. At the Advancing Data Center Construction conference, Mike Netzer of datacenterhawk spoke with Tim Stephenson, Director of Power Generation for Aligned Data Centers, to discuss the shift toward onsite power generation and its implications for the sector.

One of the key shifts highlighted was the move from traditional grid reliance to "behind-the-meter" power solutions. This approach creates an independent, self-sustained power source solely for a data center campus, disconnected from the public grid. With utility infrastructure struggling to keep up with the industry’s 15-17% annual growth in power demand, onsite power generation offers operators greater control, reliability, and the ability to build facilities in areas where grid power is insufficient or unavailable. As Stephenson explained, “We’re looking at being completely off the grid, developing power designed exclusively for our data centers.”

The transition to onsite power requires more than simply replacing grid power with a single alternative. Aligned employs a hybrid approach, integrating technologies like natural gas combustion turbines, reciprocating engines, and fuel cells to handle diverse power needs. Modern computing loads are volatile, spiking from 30% to 100% usage within milliseconds, so Aligned also incorporates battery energy storage systems (BESS), synchronous condensers, and supercapacitors for added stability. This layered strategy ensures reliability and prevents power disruptions.

Onsite power generation brings clear advantages, including guaranteed availability, independence from utility curtailments, and scalable capacity that can grow from 100 megawatts to a gigawatt. However, these benefits come with challenges. Costs are significant, with natural gas power costing 7 to 8 cents per kilowatt-hour—higher than grid power, which benefits from economies of scale. Additionally, developing onsite power requires navigating complex permitting processes for air and water, securing fuel supply infrastructure, and addressing potential community concerns about hosting a private power plant.

Data centers demand near-perfect uptime, and onsite power plants must deliver. Stephenson revealed that Aligned designs its private power plants for 99.9% reliability, far surpassing traditional commercial plants. This is achieved through modular designs and redundancy. Instead of relying on large, single units, Aligned’s plants use smaller modules like individual turbines or fuel cells. This modularity allows maintenance on one unit without disrupting overall power supply, ensuring continuous operation.

As grid constraints persist, the shift to onsite power will become more widespread. Site selection is already evolving, prioritizing access to natural gas pipelines over proximity to grid interconnects. While natural gas serves as a key bridge technology, the long-term vision includes cleaner, advanced energy sources. Small Modular Reactors (SMRs), though promising, remain several years away from commercial viability, with Stephenson estimating a 7-8 year timeline.

The future of data center power lies in a sophisticated mix of technologies, strategic site selection, and innovative energy solutions. By embracing onsite power generation, operators can gain greater control over their energy needs while building infrastructure for the next era of growth.

Moving Toward "Behind-the-Meter" PowerA Multi-Layered Power StrategyBenefits and ChallengesBuilding for Unmatched ReliabilityThe Future of Data Center Power

In a recent datacenterHawk podcast, VP of Sales Mike Netzer spoke with Thomas Jam, Founder and CEO of Copenhagen Atomics, about nuclear energy's role in powering the growing data center industry. The discussion centered on next-generation thorium molten salt reactors, exploring their potential to deliver scalable, cost-effective, and reliable energy. Jam delved into the innovations driving his company, the regulatory challenges, and his long-term vision for transforming global energy.

Copenhagen Atomics' mission is clear: disrupt the energy market by creating reactors that are at least ten times better than existing solutions. For Jam, cost is the most critical factor, with a goal of making his reactors five times cheaper than conventional nuclear plants. To achieve this, the company focuses on overcoming long-standing challenges in nuclear power, including lengthy construction timelines, cost overruns, waste management, and safety concerns. Their approach integrates fuel reuse and streamlined manufacturing to drive down the overall cost of energy production.

While ambitious, the path to commercialization is complex. Jam discussed the extensive regulatory process, from site approvals to safety and operational permits, which has pushed their production goal from 2028 to 2030. A demonstration reactor planned for 2027 in Switzerland marks a key milestone in their journey. Jam also highlighted a U.S. initiative aiming to deploy new reactors by 2026, reflecting growing momentum in the nuclear sector. In the long term, the company envisions mass production, with a goal of manufacturing one 100 MW thermal reactor per day, adding 10 gigawatts of electrical capacity annually—a transformative scale for energy-intensive industries.

The conversation turned to nuclear power's application in data centers. Jam explained that the financial viability of a dedicated, behind-the-meter nuclear power plant depends on scale. For smaller 100 MW data centers, connecting to the grid is more economical. However, as campuses scale toward one gigawatt, building private power infrastructure becomes more attractive to avoid high grid service costs, which can double electricity prices. Jam emphasized the complexity of this approach, which requires multiple reactor units, backup systems, and potentially battery storage to meet the high reliability demands of data centers.

Jam placed data center energy needs within the broader context of global consumption. Heavy industries like steel, concrete, and aluminum manufacturing remain far more energy-intensive. For example, one oil refinery can use five gigawatts of heat, dwarfing the energy demands of most data center campuses. Jam projects a tenfold increase in global energy usage over the next century and argues that only nuclear energy can scale to meet this growth. He believes nuclear will become a cornerstone of the future energy mix, as other sources face scaling limitations.

The discussion underscored a key reality: while nuclear power is poised to play a vital role in data centers, its integration will be a deliberate process. On-site nuclear reactors for every data center may not be practical, given the economic and regulatory complexities. Instead, the most impactful applications will emerge at the gigawatt scale, reshaping the grid and powering the largest infrastructure campuses. Copenhagen Atomics’ focus on creating a better, scalable energy solution highlights a vision extending far beyond today’s needs, addressing long-term global energy challenges. For data center operators and investors, the takeaway is clear—nuclear power holds transformative potential, but its full impact will come through strategic, large-scale deployment.

Aiming for Radical ImprovementChallenges on the Road to DeploymentWhen On-Site Nuclear Makes Sense for Data CentersThe Bigger Picture of Global Energy DemandA Strategic Path Forward

In a recent episode of Hawk Talk, David Sandars, Regional Director for EMEA at datacenterhawk, interviewed Jérôme Totel, Strategy and Innovation Director at Data4. The conversation highlighted Data4’s nearly 20-year journey from its origins in France to becoming a major European data center operator. Totel shared insights on market strategy, campus development, and tackling key challenges like power availability and AI-driven growth.

Strategic Growth Across Europe

Data4’s growth is marked by balanced expansion into both established and emerging European markets. From its first campus in Paris in 2006, the company has expanded to Italy, Spain, Poland, Germany, and Greece. This strategy blends market analysis with customer feedback, focusing on connectivity and demand. Emerging hubs like Athens and Madrid are becoming vital due to their strategic positions. Athens connects Asia and the Middle East to Europe, while Madrid links Europe to Asia, Africa, and the Americas.

Addressing Power and AI Challenges

Securing power is a universal challenge for data center operators across Europe. Totel emphasized the importance of building where energy is available now to support the market's annual 17% growth driven by AI. Data4 is preparing for AI's demands by engineering facilities to handle high-density workloads, supporting direct liquid cooling (DLC), air cooling, or hybrid methods. Totel explained, "We are building a data center for 20, 30 years," ensuring flexibility to adapt to changing needs and megawatt densities.

The Campus-Based Approach

Data4’s campus model allows customers to scale within the same location, reducing complexity and costs. This approach not only provides technical advantages but also drives significant local economic and social impact. For example, the Marcoussis campus near Paris attracts around 1,000 people daily, including staff and suppliers, bolstering the regional economy.

Through its "Data for Good" program, Data4 engages with local communities by educating over 100 students annually about data centers and the environmental impact of digital technologies. This program helps build awareness and encourages younger generations to consider careers in the industry.

Sustainability and the Future

Totel stressed the need for sustainable growth as the European data center industry scales to meet the predicted demand of 30-35 gigawatts by 2030, up from the current 10 gigawatts. Data4 is tackling this challenge through innovative Power Purchase Agreements (PPAs), such as its nuclear PPA with EDF in France, securing decarbonized energy to support grid stability. While established FLAP markets remain critical, Data4 is eyeing new zones for "giga-campuses," prioritizing locations with available power, connectivity, and skilled labor.

Building Europe’s Digital Future

Data4 is balancing strategic growth, future-proofing facilities, and engaging with local communities to meet the evolving demands of the digital infrastructure landscape. By expanding thoughtfully, embracing sustainability, and preparing for next-generation technologies, the company is poised to play a central role in shaping Europe’s digital future.

Strategic Growth Across EuropeAddressing Power and AI ChallengesThe Campus-Based ApproachSustainability and the FutureBuilding Europe’s Digital Future

This episode of HawkTalks explores one of the biggest challenges in the data center industry: talent acquisition and leadership development. Moderated by David Sandars, EMEA Regional Director at datacenterHawk, the conversation features industry leaders Joseph Pavitt (NDY), Holly Fenner (GeN+1), and Hayley Godlieb (Equinix), who discuss how GeN+1 is redefining efforts to attract and nurture the next generation of digital infrastructure professionals.

As the data center industry grows rapidly alongside digital transformation, the skills gap continues to widen. Joseph Pavitt highlights the urgent need to engage younger professionals, pointing out the aging workforce demographic. GeN+1 tackles this through initiatives that promote inclusivity, raise career awareness, and offer actionable solutions like outreach programs in schools and colleges to inspire future talent.

Holly Fenner explains how GeN+1 evolved from informal gatherings to a structured organization focused on inclusivity and young talent. The group’s refreshingly different approach to networking—hosting events with live music and approachable formats—has created an engaging space for emerging professionals to connect and grow their careers.

GeN+1 also uses platforms like TikTok and Instagram to connect with Gen Z and millennials. Hayley Godlieb notes that these platforms are more relevant to younger audiences than LinkedIn, sharing relatable content like “Day in the Industry” reels to spark interest and challenge outdated perceptions of the sector.

The group’s work extends globally with initiatives like run clubs, wellness events, and technical masterclasses in hubs such as Frankfurt, Dublin, and Milan. Plans for a flagship GeN+1 Conference will further amplify younger voices, with panels led by emerging professionals addressing critical topics like sustainability and innovation.

The episode closes with a call to action: solving the talent crisis requires more than talk—it demands active community building, education, and inclusivity. GeN+1’s efforts serve as a blueprint for the industry, demonstrating how bold action can address workforce challenges head-on.

Whether you’re a young professional, investor, or industry veteran, this episode offers valuable insights into shaping the future of the data center workforce through collaboration and innovation. Don’t miss it!

Addressing the Talent ShortageBuilding a Supportive CommunityReaching the Next GenerationScaling a Global MovementAction-Oriented SolutionsListen Now

In a recent datacenterHawk podcast, David Liggitt sat down with Herson Suindah, President Director & Group CEO of SM+, to explore Indonesia’s rapidly evolving digital infrastructure market. Their discussion highlighted SM+’s vision, the unique opportunities in the region, and the company’s strategic partnerships that are setting a new standard for data center development in Southeast Asia.

SM+ was founded with the mission to fill critical infrastructure gaps in Indonesia. Backed by a major Indonesian business group, the company takes a future-focused approach, integrating fiber networks, mobile operations, submarine cables, and data centers into a unified solution.

Suindah explained, “If the country isn’t ready, then what do we need to do, and how are we going to do it?” This mindset drives SM+ to develop solutions that anticipate and address Indonesia’s evolving digital needs.

With a population of 275 million—many of whom are young and tech-savvy—Indonesia offers massive growth potential. Rather than being limited by outdated systems, the country’s relatively clean slate gives it an advantage: the ability to build modern, efficient infrastructure from the ground up.

Indonesia's openness to technology, from BlackBerry in the early days to social platforms like Instagram, shows a strong track record of digital adoption. While the country may not yet lead in tech creation, it excels at commercializing and scaling digital tools—an asset SM+ leverages in its long-term strategy.

SM+ prioritizes global partnerships to accelerate knowledge-sharing and innovation. One standout example is their joint venture with Korea’s LG Group to expand regional services.

“For us, it’s not about building a franchise but forming true partnerships,” Suindah said. By aligning with global leaders and attracting top-tier talent, SM+ has positioned itself as a trusted local expert and partner for international companies entering Indonesia.

SM+ is currently developing an 18MW city-center data center in Jakarta using modular construction, designed for efficiency and scalability. The company overcomes regulatory and timeline challenges by implementing global best practices and innovative technologies.

Beyond Indonesia, SM+ has regional ambitions. Suindah believes the country will move from being a technology consumer to becoming a hub for innovation and infrastructure leadership in Southeast Asia.

SM+’s success stems from its forward-thinking approach, strong partnerships, and commitment to solving real-world infrastructure challenges. “At the very basic layer of all the things we want to build is the infrastructure,” Suindah noted.

For IT professionals, investors, and global operators, the message is clear: Indonesia is an emerging powerhouse in digital infrastructure, and SM+ is leading the way.

Stay tuned for more updates on SM+ and their transformative projects across Indonesia.

The Vision Behind SM+: Building Indonesia’s Digital BackboneWhy Indonesia is a Market to WatchPartnerships: The Key to GrowthRevolutionizing Indonesia’s Digital InfrastructureA Blueprint for Leadership

The latest episode of the datacenterHawk podcast features Donny Gunadi, Senior Insight Analyst at datacenterHawk, and Hendrikus Gozali, Country Head of STT GDC Indonesia. They discuss Indonesia’s dynamic data center growth, highlighting innovation, scalability, and sustainability as key drivers shaping Southeast Asia’s digital infrastructure market.Indonesia’s Digital LandscapeIndonesia is emerging as a pivotal hub for digital transformation in Southeast Asia. Hendrikus Gozali attributes this to the rise of AI, cloud computing, and growing digital consumption. STT GDC Indonesia, part of a global data center powerhouse, has expanded rapidly by building high-capacity campuses for hyperscale clients, such as its Jakarta campus designed to handle over 200 MW of power. “It’s really Indonesia’s time to shine as a digital infrastructure leader,” Gozali remarked, citing reduced latency and agile solutions for end users.Sustainability and InnovationSustainability is a cornerstone of STT GDC’s strategy, with 75% of its global facilities operating on renewable energy. Gozali emphasized eco-efficient practices and advanced cooling technologies, such as air and liquid cooling systems, to handle the growing demands of AI workloads. Agility, he stressed, is critical in adapting to clients’ needs swiftly, especially as global cooling standards remain in progress.Strategic Advantages in Land and PowerIndonesia’s abundance of land and energy resources gives its data center market a competitive edge. Unlike other regions facing power shortages, Indonesia has surplus energy and significant land banking, enabling STT GDC to deploy large-scale facilities quickly. Gozali noted that 100 MW facilities can be deployed in just a year by leveraging pre-secured infrastructure and robust supply chain partnerships.Thriving in a Market of “Surprises”Indonesia’s data center market is defined by unpredictable demand, with hyperscale client requests often arising at short notice. STT GDC addresses this by proactively building facilities and maintaining operational flexibility. “We build first because we know they’ll come,” Gozali explained, emphasizing forward-planning and adaptability.Bright Future for Indonesia’s Data CentersGozali envisions significant potential for Indonesia’s data center industry, driven by its growing digital economy, supportive government policies, and AI adoption. STT GDC is also committed to fostering local talent and community development, creating jobs and supporting long-term digital transformation.Final TakeawaysIndonesia’s data center market offers immense opportunities, with unique advantages in sustainability, scalability, and proactive strategies. As the region evolves, it’s poised to become a leading player in global digital infrastructure, shaping the future of connectivity and transformation in Southeast Asia.

In this conversation, David Liggitt, founder of datacenterHawk, chats with Jon Curry, VP of Operations APAC at Digital Realty, and Krishna Worotikan, CFO of Digital Realty Bersama. Together, they explore the explosive growth in Indonesia’s data center market—fueled by digital transformation, rising connectivity needs, and surging demand for cloud and AI technologies. The discussion offers valuable insight into how global expertise and local partnerships are shaping the future of Indonesia’s digital infrastructure.

A central focus is the partnership between Digital Realty and Digital Realty Bersama—a joint venture just three months in, already seeing momentum. Krishna Worotikan emphasizes how this collaboration leverages Digital Realty’s global experience, particularly in Asia, while anchoring itself through local alliances. Jon Curry notes that the fusion of international standards and regional insight makes them strong enablers of digital growth in Jakarta and beyond.

Indonesia’s rapid digitalization is unmistakable. Curry reflects on the transformation since 2013—from limited infrastructure to today’s booming digital banking, e-commerce, and AI activity. As enterprise cloud and AI adoption intensifies, demand for scalable, reliable infrastructure is soaring. Worotikan forecasts dramatic capacity growth—from 5 MW to 150 MW within the decade.

Despite the opportunity, hurdles remain. The talent gap is a pressing issue, with Worotikan calling for stronger alignment between tech skills and emerging AI workloads. The government is actively supporting this push. Curry highlights operational complexities like liquid cooling, which will be key for supporting AI. Standardized, forward-looking solutions are critical.

Digital Realty’s success in Indonesia hinges on marrying global best practices with local market knowledge. Lessons from hubs like Frankfurt and Singapore guide Jakarta’s development, while local partners ensure on-the-ground relevance. Their Service Fabric platform enables seamless connectivity to global cloud ecosystems—boosting Indonesia’s role in regional and global networks.

Curry and Worotikan express optimism about Indonesia’s rise as a leading data center hub in Southeast Asia. With strong digital momentum, local-global collaboration, and infrastructure innovation, the market is set to mature rapidly. For IT leaders and investors, Indonesia represents a vibrant, strategic opportunity in the digital age.

Strategic Joint Ventures for Rapid ImpactDigital Acceleration Driving Infrastructure NeedsNavigating Challenges in a Dynamic MarketLocal Insights Meet Global ScaleA Promising Future

In the latest episode of the datacenterHawk podcast, Dedi Iskandar, APAC Regional Director at datacenterHawk, sits down with Darryl Chiew, Country Manager for Thailand and Singapore at OneAsia Network. The conversation delves into the dynamic growth of Thailand's data center market, OneAsia's strategic expansion, and the evolving demands of the digital infrastructure industry.Thailand's Emerging Data Center MarketThailand is rapidly becoming a hotspot for data center investments, driven by government support and increasing interest from hyperscalers. Darryl Chiew highlights how the country’s strategic location and growing digital economy make it an attractive destination for operators. With only 200 MW of live capacity currently, the market is poised for significant growth, potentially outpacing neighboring Malaysia in the next few years.OneAsia's Strategic ExpansionOneAsia Network has been at the forefront of this growth, with its first international data center in Thailand—a 20 MW facility launched in October 2023. Darryl shares plans for a second facility set to open next year, reflecting the company’s commitment to meeting rising demand. Beyond Thailand, OneAsia is also expanding into Japan and South Korea, solidifying its presence in the Asia-Pacific region.The Role of AI in Driving DemandThe rise of AI technologies, particularly since the launch of ChatGPT in late 2022, has significantly influenced data center requirements. Darryl discusses how customers are building AI GPU clusters and developing custom chipsets to support advanced computing needs. This shift is creating new opportunities for data center operators to cater to specialized workloads.Differentiating Through Value-Added ServicesOneAsia sets itself apart by offering more than just colocation services. The company provides GPU orchestration software, enabling customers to manage and monetize their GPU clouds. Additionally, OneAsia’s in-house design and build capabilities, coupled with its international talent pool, allow it to deliver tailored solutions that meet the unique needs of hyperscale and cloud customers.ConclusionThis episode underscores the transformative potential of Thailand’s data center market and OneAsia’s pivotal role in shaping its future. As the industry evolves, operators like OneAsia are not only meeting current demands but also innovating to address emerging trends. For professionals in the digital infrastructure space, this discussion offers valuable insights into the opportunities and challenges of operating in a rapidly growing market.

The latest episode of the datacenterHawk podcast dives into the evolving digital infrastructure landscape. Hosted by Donny Gunadi, Sr. Insight Analyst at datacenterHawk, the episode features Hamid Maani, Chief Sales Officer of BW Digital, discussing their innovative projects, philosophy, and the strategic importance of Singapore and neighboring markets.Why Batam is Ideal for Digital Infrastructure BW Digital is establishing a major data center hub in Batam, Indonesia, as part of the "Singapore Plus" ecosystem. With Singapore’s land scarcity and resource limits, Batam—just an hour away—emerged as an ideal solution. Its abundance of resources, including land and electricity, and its status as a Special Economic Zone make it a prime location. Maani emphasized BW Digital's holistic approach, focusing on building an ecosystem with investments in resources, talent, and connectivity to integrate Batam with Singapore seamlessly.Cutting-Edge Submarine Connectivity One of BW Digital’s key initiatives is a new submarine cable system connecting Singapore and Batam. Supporting up to 24 fiber pairs, this infrastructure boosts regional connectivity. The Singaporean government’s trust in the project aligns with its goal of doubling submarine cable landings in the next decade. BW Digital’s cable landing station, integrated within their data center campus, consolidates operations and improves efficiency. For enterprise clients, this seamless international connectivity is a significant draw.Flexible Data Center Design for Emerging Needs BW Digital emphasizes flexibility in its data center design. Facilities support both air and liquid cooling technologies, accommodating high-performance computing workloads, especially AI. “At a time when liquid cooling wasn’t mainstream, we designed our data centers to support it,” said Maani. With rack densities reaching 200 kW, BW Digital is prepared for AI training demands. Clients can start with lower densities and scale up as needed, offering flexibility for hyperscalers and enterprises.Investing in Local Talent A unique aspect of BW Digital’s approach is its focus on community integration and skill development. Leveraging Batam’s Special Economic Zone status, the company trains a skilled local workforce rather than relying on remote support. The Digital Park in Batam further fosters innovation through initiatives like the Apple Academy and partnerships with MIT and IBM. Maani highlighted the importance of enabling local growth while meeting customer needs.Scalable Development and Market Potential BW Digital’s Batam campus is projected to deliver 120 MW of capacity, with the first 23 MW phase ready by Q1 2026. The campus will feature six data halls, each supporting 3.8 MW. This aligns with the submarine cable’s completion, ensuring the ecosystem goes live as a unified solution. A Vision for the Future The podcast highlights BW Digital’s vision and adaptability in the competitive data center industry. By combining bold design, connectivity, and talent initiatives, BW Digital sets a new standard for digital infrastructure in the Asia-Pacific region. Their approach offers a blueprint for intelligent growth, blending innovation with socio-economic development. For IT professionals and digital investors, this episode offers valuable insights into the strategies reshaping data centers and driving future growth.