What will it take to win the next DC-CFA?
Taking a closer look at recent data centre developments.
With the next DC-CFA expected, what will it take to land new data centre capacity in Singapore? I look at recent developments and here's what I think.
Building a new data centre in Singapore today is non-trivial. Severely constrained in renewables, Singapore allocates new capacity judiciously, almost jealously.
The process is clear though, with the Data Centre - Call for Application (DC-CFA) being one such route.
Will there be a DC-CFA 2?
There's been a long silence since the pilot DC-CFA. But many in the industry expect a new DC-CFA to take place end of this year.
To be clear, I've neither heard anything new, including whether it has been delayed. Assuming it goes ahead, recent developments give us a clue what to expect.
- Equinix's SG6 from the pilot DC-CFA.
- Chat with those who didn't get in.
- Green Mark for Data Centre 2024.
More on these later.
Highly desirable DC hub
While the 300MW earmarked for new data centres seems tame compared to Johor or elsewhere, data centres in Singapore remain highly coveted.
- Most MNCs have a presence here.
- Extremely well-connected.
- No risk of oversupply.
- Mature, proven hub.
It is for these reasons that data centre operators remain interested in Singapore.
What does it take to win?
So what does it take to secure new data centre capacity? By looking at recent developments, it's possible to piece a picture together.
(a) Green Mark for Data Centres 2024: Facility-level energy efficiency remains crucial.
GMDC 2024 imposes tighter requirements on PUE measurements: Data must now be captured after the PDU, instead of after the UPS. Moreover, PUE must be measured at 25% IT load.
(b) SG+ strategy: Regional footprint not optional.
Singapore is pushing ahead to develop itself as an advanced digital hub - including Johor and Batam. This was alluded to in the pilot DC-CFA. And yes, all 4 pilot DC-CFA winners have regional footprints.
(c) Ecosystem approach: Raising the bar for the industry.
The sustainable data centre will take more than one operator. Singapore is cognisant and wants to develop a vibrant ecosystem to lift standards for all. Proposals that move the needle here will be a huge differentiator.
Your turn
What do you think? Would love to hear your thoughts either in the comments below or a direct message.
