Overview blurb

The UK has officially classed data centres as Critical National Infrastructure, a landmark move that could reshape planning rules and accelerate development. But while policy reform is welcome, the industry’s biggest challenge remains power: securing enough renewable, reliable energy to meet surging demand from AI, cloud, and digital services. This report explores the pressures, opportunities, and reforms shaping how Europe, and the UK in particular, can power the next phase of data centre growth.

5 main takeaways

• Data centres as CNI. The UK now recognises data infrastructure as Critical National Infrastructure, with proposals to fast-track large projects under national planning.
• Power is the pinch point. 90% of respondents cite power availability as the single biggest constraint on new UK development, more decisive than planning reform.
• Demand keeps climbing. 94% of survey participants report rising demand amid falling supply; developers and investors remain unanimously expansion-minded.
• AI accelerates pressure. 85% of respondents saw demand uplift from AI in 2024, with many warning of grid constraints in mature hubs like London and Dublin.
• Skills & supply chain strain. 99% foresee staff shortages in 2025, while 85% report continued supply chain volatility impacting cost and delivery.

Read the full report →

‍