Experts in the industry have raised concerns about the worsening shortage of space in European data centers as the demand for AI continues to surge. The rapid expansion of companies like Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Meta, Oracle, and ByteDance (the owner of TikTok) has put immense pressure on data center operators who are struggling to match the pace.
Kevin Restivo, the head of European data center research at CBRE, acknowledged the dire situation during a conference in Amsterdam. He stated that there is no relief in sight as suitable space and access to electricity fail to keep up with the growing demand. CBRE predicts that average vacancy rates in major European markets will plummet to a new low of 8.2 percent in 2024, following a previous all-time low of 10.6 percent in 2023.
Although some second-tier markets like Berlin, Milan, Zurich, and Warsaw are expected to expand their capacity by more than 10 percent this year, even these regions are facing falling vacancy rates. Stijn Grove, the director of the Dutch Data Centre Association, expressed doubts about calls for European “sovereignty” in cloud computing and AI. He emphasized that European cloud operators, while of good quality, cannot match the sheer size and resources of their American and Chinese counterparts.
In addition to the space shortage, the lack of a coordinated European plan to address electrical grid congestion and zoning issues is compounding the problem. The sentiment of “not in my backyard” is hindering the development of data centers, despite the increasing demand for their services.
The consequences of this space shortage are far-reaching. Enterprises and businesses in Europe are finding it increasingly difficult to secure the necessary infrastructure to support their operations. While rising data center prices may benefit operators, the limited availability of space presents a significant challenge for the growth and development of AI in Europe.
Addressing this shortage will require a collaborative effort between governments, industry leaders, and communities to find solutions that balance the need for data centers with concerns about space, electricity, and environmental impact. Only through strategic planning and cooperation can Europe hope to meet the surging demand for AI and keep pace with the global digital landscape.
FAQ Section:
1. What is the main concern raised by experts in the industry?
Experts have raised concerns about the worsening shortage of space in European data centers as the demand for AI continues to surge.
2. Which companies’ rapid expansion is putting pressure on data center operators?
Companies like Amazon, Microsoft, Google, Meta, Oracle, and ByteDance (the owner of TikTok) are rapidly expanding and putting immense pressure on data center operators.
3. What is the predicted average vacancy rate in major European markets in 2024?
CBRE predicts that average vacancy rates in major European markets will plummet to a new low of 8.2 percent in 2024.
4. Which second-tier markets are facing falling vacancy rates?
Second-tier markets like Berlin, Milan, Zurich, and Warsaw are also facing falling vacancy rates.
5. Why are European cloud operators unable to match the size and resources of American and Chinese counterparts?
European cloud operators are of good quality, but they cannot match the sheer size and resources of their American and Chinese counterparts.
6. What are the consequences of the space shortage in European data centers?
The consequences of the space shortage include difficulties for enterprises and businesses in securing necessary infrastructure to support their operations and a significant challenge for the growth and development of AI in Europe.
Key Terms and Definitions:
– Data centers: Facilities that house computer systems and associated components to store, manage, process, and distribute large amounts of data.
– AI: Artificial Intelligence, the simulation of human intelligence in machines that are programmed to think and learn like humans.
– Vacancy rates: The percentage of available space in a particular market or industry that is unoccupied or not utilized.
– Cloud computing: The delivery of computing services over the internet, including storage, processing power, and software, without the need for local servers or infrastructure.
– Electrical grid congestion: The strain or overloading of the electrical grid, typically due to high demand or inadequate infrastructure.
– Zoning issues: Challenges related to land-use regulations and restrictions that dictate where certain activities, such as the construction of data centers, can take place.
Suggested related links:
1. CBRE – Official website of CBRE, a global real estate services and investment firm mentioned in the article.
2. Dutch Data Centre Association – Official website of the Dutch Data Centre Association, mentioned in the article.
3. Centers for Disease Control and Prevention – Although not directly related to the article, this link is an example of a CDC website.
4. International Energy Agency – Official website of the International Energy Agency, an organization that provides information and analysis on energy-related issues. Although not directly related to the article, this link provides information on energy and environmental impact.