Colt Data Centre Services has received the go-ahead for a substantial £2.5 billion investment in the expansion of its Hayes Digital Park, located in west London. This initiative includes the addition of three hyperscale data centers, collectively aiming to more than double the site’s current IT capacity with a planned increase of 97 MW. The construction phase is set to kick off in mid-2026, with initial operations expected to commence in early 2029.

These facilities are planned to be wholly powered through renewable energy sources, adhering to a Power Purchase Agreement. The setup includes limitations on backup generator use to a maximum of 15 hours annually, with plans to secure grid connectivity via high-voltage supply by late 2027.

This expansion aligns with the UK government’s industrial strategy, focusing on enhancing digital infrastructure to support a burgeoning AI economy. Colt also plans to implement a district heating network to repurpose waste heat from the data centers, aiming to support local community and business infrastructure, despite potential challenges in predicting future waste heat output.

The campus expansion will host an Innovation Hub designed to foster innovation and community engagement, with plans for cultural events. Xavier Matagne, Colt’s chief real estate officer, emphasized the project’s significance for the UK’s digital economy, stating, ‘This expansion is pivotal for powering innovation and supporting the AI revolution, contributing significantly to the energy transition.’