Tata Power to Power India’s AI Boom with 2.8 GW Data Centre Push

Tata Power has announced a diversified 2.8 GW+ data centre opportunity pipeline across 18 leading global and domestic operators, positioning itself as a key partner in India’s AI and digital infrastructure expansion. This includes renewable energy, transmission, and distribution projects, with major investments in Mumbai’s grid to support hyperscale growth.

Tata Power has developed a robust and diversified data centre pipeline, including ~430 MW of upcoming distribution load, 1,236 MW of transmission-linked projects, and 1,150 MW of renewable capacity under active engagement. With 29 ongoing workstreams across 18 major global and domestic operators, the company is emerging as a critical enabler of India’s largest hyperscalers and AI-ready digital infrastructure.

Key Highlights

• 2.8 GW+ pipeline: Spread across 29 active workstreams with 18 blue-chip operators.
• 430 MW upcoming load under distribution.
• 1,236 MW transmission-linked opportunities.
• 1,150 MW green energy capacity under engagement.
• Integrated solutions: Powered land, renewable energy, storage, cooling systems, and utility infrastructure.
• Mumbai Grid Upgradation: ₹15,000 crore investment to enhance 110 kV & 220 kV networks, build new receiving stations, and develop a 400 kV transmission ring.

Strategic Context

Factor	Details
AI-driven demand	India’s AI-led data centres projected to add 26.3 GW electricity demand by FY2031-32.
Hyperscale focus	Direct support for hyperscalers and cloud operators with integrated infrastructure.
Energy diversification	Strong emphasis on renewables + transmission upgrades for sustainability and reliability.
Competitive positioning	Aligns Tata Power with Reliance, Adani, and global players investing in India’s AI-ready infrastructure.

Risks & Challenges

• Execution risk: Pipeline is opportunity-based, not confirmed contracts.
• Infrastructure strain: Hyperscale growth could stress Mumbai’s transmission capacity.
• Regulatory hurdles: Large-scale renewable and transmission projects require multi-state clearances.
• Cooling demand: AI-ready centres will increase cooling and water consumption.

Implications for India’s AI & Digital Growth

• Energy backbone: Stable baseload + renewable mix for AI workloads.
• Global competitiveness: Positions India as a trusted hub for hyperscale data centres.
• Sustainability: Supports India’s net-zero 2070 goals while enabling exponential AI-driven demand.

Colt DCS and RMZ Break Ground on AI‑Ready Mega Data Centre in Mumbai, Driving $1.7B Digital Infrastructure Expansion

• Part of a $1.7 billion investment under Colt DCS and RMZ's joint venture to develop data centre capacity across India. 
• Signs its first hyperscale client for Mumbai 3
• AI-ready facility delivering 64MW upon completion, powered entirely by renewable energy
• Hybrid cooling design incorporating a closed-loop cooling system to enable near-zero wastewater. 
• Expected to create more than 700 jobs across construction and operations

Colt Data Centre Services (Colt DCS), a global provider of AI-ready, hyperscale and large enterprise data centres, and RMZ, India's largest privately owned real assets platform, today announced the commencement of construction of its third data centre in the city (Mumbai 3), an AI-ready facility located at the operator's Navi Mumbai Campus that will deliver 64MW upon completion.

Mumbai 3 is being developed as part of Colt DCS and RMZ's joint venture (JV), announced in 2024, to invest $1.7 billion in the Indian data centre market. Ground preparation began in December 2025, and construction is now underway following the signing of the facility’s first hyperscale customer.

“The nature of data centre demand is evolving rapidly, with customers requiring larger deployments, higher rack densities and infrastructure capable of supporting increasingly intensive AI workloads. Mumbai 3 is designed to address these needs, further strengthening our Navi Mumbai Campus as a scalable and future-ready digital infrastructure platform,” said Pratap Mane, Country Head DCS, India.

“The next wave of digital growth will be driven by infrastructure that brings together scale, resilience, and speed to market. At Mumbai 3, we are developing a future-ready campus designed to enable hyperscalers and neo-cloud providers to scale seamlessly as their capacity and computing needs evolve,” said Deepak Chhabria, President, RMZ Digital Infrastructure.

Built for AI Deployments

Mumbai 3 has been designed to support AI workloads and high-density compute deployments, delivering 64MW of secured contracted power, supported by a hybrid cooling architecture that combines traditional air cooling with direct liquid-to-chip cooling. The facility will also benefit from a 220kV GIS substation located on campus, providing high levels of resilience and scalability, alongside carrier-neutral connectivity with access to high-capacity fibre routes.

Sustainable by Design, Creating Local Opportunity

• Operates using 100% renewable energy
• Closed-loop cooling system enabling near-zero wastewater
• Expected to create more than 700 jobs across construction and operations
• Supports local suppliers, contractors, and service providers

Joint Venture Commitment

As part of the JV, both organisations have committed to develop 250MW of data centre capacity across Mumbai and Chennai. The partnership brings together Colt DCS' global data centre expertise with RMZ's over two decades of experience in developing, owning and operating high-quality infrastructure in the Indian market.

About Colt DCS:
We design, build and operate data centres for global hyperscalers and large enterprises.
• Global portfolio includes 15 operational data centres, with 12 sites under development across 9 cities in the UK, Europe, and APAC.
• Over 25 years of experience in the data centre industry.
• Sustainability at the core, with Science Based Targets aligned to Net Zero Standard.
https://www.coltdcs.com

About RMZ:
RMZ is India's largest privately owned real assets platform, bringing together real assets and private capital across six Indian cities.
• Builds, owns and operates mixed-use GCC ecosystems hosting global enterprises.
• AI and data infrastructure serving India’s digital economy.
• Founded by Raj Menda and Manoj Menda in 2002, headquartered in Bengaluru.
https://www.rmz.com

Vertiv Marks AI Infrastructure Milestone with India’s First Direct‑to‑Chip Liquid Cooling Deployment

Secondary Fluid Network (SFN) skid design, engineering & manufacturing capability, and rigorous quality standards support Vertiv India's growing role in the country's liquid cooling market

Vertiv (NYSE: VRT), a global leader in critical digital infrastructure, has successfully delivered India’s first direct-to-chip high-density liquid cooling (HDLC) deployment in collaboration with CapitaLand India Trust (CLINT), Asia’s first India-focused property trust under CapitaLand Investment (CLI), at the CLDC Mumbai 01 Data Center in Airoli, Navi Mumbai. The project leverages Vertiv’s secondary fluid network (SFN) system to support 30 MW of AI workloads for a hyperscale end customer, marking a significant milestone for India’s data centre industry as it moves to liquid cooling to meet the demands of AI infrastructure.

Liquid-based cooling is the fastest-growing segment, accelerating as operators move beyond traditional air cooling to meet the demands of AI-driven, high-density workloads. Central to enabling liquid-based cooling adoption at scale, the closed loop SFN system carries coolant from a facility's cooling infrastructure to the chip level, and is manufactured, tested and commissioned to exacting standards before it can support live IT loads.

“The CapitaLand Investment project, particularly the collaboration, helped us accelerate the development of our manufacturing and engineering capabilities, enabling us to support the growing demands of AI-ready digital infrastructure,” said Vertiv India Managing Director Subhasis Majumdar. “As the Indian market advances toward high-density liquid cooling for hyperscale and data center applications, we see meaningful growth potential and are well positioned to deliver the scale, expertise, and innovation required for these deployments.”

From innovation to India’s first HDLC data center deployment

To meet the scale of the HDLC project, Vertiv built a production facility capable of mass-manufacturing the customized technology loop skids designed to support future large-scale deployments. The facility was also designed to meet stringent standards for protecting sensitive cooling components from contamination.

Vertiv worked closely with CapitaLand Investment, owner and operator of CLDC Mumbai, to develop installation and commissioning (I&C) procedures designed to minimize dust ingress into the technology loop as the SFN skids were installed. Following commissioning, Vertiv demonstrated technology-loop balancing using its innovative SFN-Tab kits, then carried out comprehensive Level 4 (L4) testing at the data centre to validate performance ahead of go-live.

Building Vertiv India’s capability for large-scale liquid cooling

The completion of this project further demonstrates Vertiv’s expertise in developing gigawatt-scale AI infrastructure. It also builds on the relationship between Vertiv and CapitaLand Investment, with both organizations working closely from design through commissioning to bring one of India’s first HDLC facilities to life.

For more information on Vertiv’s leading portfolio of power and thermal management, infrastructure solutions, IT systems, and services for critical digital applications, visit Vertiv.com.

Chhattisgarh Attracts ₹43,250 Cr FDI, Anchored by Hyperscale Data Centre Push at SING Forum 2026

Chhattisgarh gets ₹43,250 crore FDI proposals at SING Forum 2026

Energy Capital Global Pte Ltd proposes ₹41,750 crore investment in 100 MW hyperscale data centre; CM Vishnu Deo Sai hands over ‘Investment Invitation Letter’ to Singapore-based company

Chhattisgarh has received FDI proposals worth ₹43,250 crore at the inaugural SING Forum 2026 in Singapore, including a ₹41,750 crore proposal from Singapore-based Energy Capital Global Pte Ltd for setting up a 100 MW hyperscale data centre in the state. Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai handed over a formal ‘Investment Invitation Letter’ to Energy Capital Global Pte Ltd for the proposed project and invited Singapore investors to explore investment opportunities in Chhattisgarh.

The ₹41,750 crore proposed hyperscale data centre investment is being seen as an important step in Chhattisgarh’s emergence beyond its traditional industrial base and its growing positioning as a hub for data, digital infrastructure and new-age technologies. Such a large-scale project could strengthen the state’s digital capabilities while creating opportunities for new technology companies and investors. The investment proposals also reflect the growing confidence of international companies in Chhattisgarh’s investment environment and reinforce its emerging identity as a destination for digital and technology-led investment.

Commenting on the investment proposals, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai said, “At SING Forum 2026, we secured FDI commitments worth ₹43,250 crore, led by a ₹41,750 crore commitment from Singapore’s Energy Capital Global for a 100 MW hyperscale data centre in our State. When a global company places such a large bet on Chhattisgarh, it is a powerful statement of trust in our policies, our potential and our people. This is just the beginning. Many more global partners will follow, and Chhattisgarh is ready to welcome them.”

The Singapore-India Network for Growth (SING) Forum is an international business platform designed to strengthen strategic economic engagement between Singapore and India. The forum brings together policymakers, market development experts and enterprises to promote cooperation across high-value sectors including technology, infrastructure, advanced manufacturing and digital ecosystems. It also seeks to build long-term business-to-business partnerships and develop commercial ecosystems that combine Singapore’s global expertise with the scale of India’s growth opportunities.

Earlier, on the second day of his Singapore visit, Chief Minister Vishnu Deo Sai interacted with representatives of the industry at the SING Forum and invited them to explore investment opportunities in Chhattisgarh. He highlighted the state’s industrial capabilities, natural resources and emerging investment opportunities.

Sai said Chhattisgarh is no longer limited to minerals and traditional industries but is rapidly emerging as a destination for technology, innovation and global investment. The state government is working to develop Chhattisgarh as one of the country’s leading industrial and investment hubs by combining its natural resources with modern technology.

He said Singapore’s technological capabilities and experience in urban development, combined with Chhattisgarh’s industrial potential, can open up new avenues for growth and collaboration. The state government is committed to providing investors with a conducive policy environment and the necessary support to facilitate investments.

The SING Forum also saw discussions on potential collaboration in areas including technology and professional capability centres, logistics, green energy, industrial infrastructure and urban development. Sai said the Chhattisgarh-Singapore partnership can promote not only investment but also employment generation, skill development and technology transfer.

The ₹43,250 crore investment proposals received at SING Forum 2026 underscore the growing interest among international investors in Chhattisgarh and represent an important step towards strengthening the state’s position as a destination for digital infrastructure, technology and global investment.

India’s TakeMe2Space to Launch Distributed Orbital Data Center on SpaceX Falcon 9

Two 100 kg MOI constellation satellites will use optical inter-satellite links to share data and computing workloads in orbit, advancing TakeMe2Space's roadmap towards scalable orbital data centre infrastructure

TakeMe2Space has signed a Launch Service Agreement with RIDE! Space to fly two 100 kg MOI constellation satellites on the Waymaker-2 mission, targeted for launch in late 2028 aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9. The two spacecraft will be TakeMe2Space’s first data centre-class satellites and form part of the company’s roadmap to move from single-satellite compute demonstrations to distributed orbital computing infrastructure.

The mission follows MOI-1a, scheduled to launch on 1 October 2026 on SpaceX’s Transporter-18 mission, with orbital injection expected by 8 October via a D-Orbit orbital transfer vehicle and LEOP operations targeted for completion by 16 October. MOI-1b is also scheduled to launch in 2026.

The mission will demonstrate distributed computing between spacecraft, with the two satellites using optical inter-satellite links to share data and computational workloads at high speed. It marks the next step in TakeMe2Space's development of space-based compute infrastructure, moving from computing onboard individual satellites towards a networked architecture in which multiple spacecraft can work together.

Each satellite is expected to generate and handle about 1.5 kW of power, host 10 Nvidia Thor GPUs and 100 TB of onboard storage, and carry a multispectral imager with approximately 1 m ground sampling distance. The pair will be linked by optical inter-satellite links, making this the first Indian mission designed to network computing across spacecraft rather than run it on a single satellite.

The two satellites will serve as technology demonstrators for the next generation of orbital data centre-class spacecraft. Their primary objective is to demonstrate high-performance computing infrastructure in orbit and its practical applications, allowing computational workloads to run close to where data is generated instead of transmitting large volumes of raw data to ground stations for processing.

The first application will be Earth observation. Each satellite will carry a multispectral imager with approximately 1 m ground sampling distance (GSD), while TakeMe2Space's OrbitLab platform will provide the onboard computing infrastructure to process and analyse imagery directly in orbit.

Workloads running onboard will process imagery and extract relevant information before downlink, demonstrating near-real-time Earth-observation analytics, intelligent image processing, data reduction and selective downlinking. Instead of relying on the transmission of large volumes of raw imagery for processing on Earth, the satellites will demonstrate how useful information can be generated closer to where the data is collected.

The two spacecraft will also carry technologies required to scale orbital computing towards future data centre-class infrastructure. These include high-performance onboard computing, 10 Nvidia Thor GPUs, 100 TB of onboard storage, power systems generating and handling approximately 1.5 kW per satellite, high-performance thermal management and optical inter-satellite links.

The optical links are a key part of the mission. They will allow data and workloads to move between the two spacecraft at high speed, demonstrating how standalone orbital computing platforms can evolve into distributed computing infrastructure across a constellation.

The power system will use silicon solar cells rather than gallium arsenide cells, which are commonly used in spacecraft. Silicon cells cost a fraction of gallium arsenide cells, and the choice is aimed at reducing the cost of each satellite, which can flow through to lower pricing for customers running workloads on the platform.

"Everything we have flown so far has been about proving that compute belongs in orbit. These two satellites take that further by demonstrating how compute and data can move between spacecraft. The ability for satellites to work together, rather than operate as isolated computing platforms, is fundamental to building scalable orbital data centre infrastructure," said Ronak Kumar Samantray, Founder and CEO, TakeMe2Space.

The mission will also demonstrate fine-pointing and precision attitude control through an indigenous attitude determination and control system (ADCS) architecture built on domestically developed reaction wheels, star trackers, fine sun sensors and other critical components. This includes StarSense, the star tracker TakeMe2Space introduced in June with support from IN-SPACe’s Technology Adoption Fund. The architecture is designed to meet the pointing requirements of both the imaging payload and future compute-intensive applications.

Waymaker-2 is the second mission under the Waymaker dedicated rideshare programme operated by SEOPS and is scheduled to fly aboard a SpaceX Falcon 9 to a sun-synchronous orbit at approximately 500 km. TakeMe2Space secured its slot on the mission through RIDE! Space, the Paris-based launch mission management company.

"TakeMe2Space is bringing a new class of payload to rideshare, one defined as much by what it computes as by what it carries. Supporting two 100 kg spacecraft with demanding power, pointing and inter-satellite communication requirements demonstrates the kind of complex missions the Waymaker platform is designed to enable," said Valentin Benoit, CEO, RIDE! Space.

The Waymaker-2 mission forms part of TakeMe2Space's broader roadmap towards scalable orbital computing infrastructure. OrbitLab is designed to allow computational workloads to execute directly aboard satellites, enabling spacecraft to process and analyse information rather than function primarily as data-collection platforms.

By combining high-performance onboard computing with Earth-observation payloads and high-speed links between spacecraft, the mission will test a critical element of that roadmap: whether computing workloads and data can be distributed across multiple satellites as part of a shared orbital infrastructure.

Globally, several players have already launched orbital compute nodes. TakeMe2Space’s 2028 mission is unique because it will be India’s first to demonstrate distributed orbital computing across multiple satellites using optical inter‑satellite links.

In January this year, Axiom Space launched the first two orbital data center nodes into low Earth orbit, enabling AI/ML processing and secure data handling via Kepler Communications’ optical relay network. These nodes marked the first operational orbital data center infrastructure.

Later on July 2026, Sophia Space + Caltech secured a U.S. patent for space‑based data centers, laying groundwork for orbital compute infrastructure but focused on architecture and IP rather than immediate deployment.

Notably, Google Project Suncatcher will began testing orbital AI compute with TPUs aboard a small satellite, in October this year, validating feasibility for future constellations.

About TakeMe2Space

TakeMe2Space (TM2Space) is a Hyderabad-based deeptech company building orbital compute infrastructure. Its OrbitLab platform enables researchers, startups and enterprises to run AI models and computational workloads aboard satellites in orbit. Its first mission, MOI-TD, launched on December 30, 2024 and ran more than 20 experiments in low Earth orbit. The company designs and manufactures satellite subsystems and test systems in-house and is working towards a constellation of compute-enabled spacecraft and scalable orbital data centre infrastructure.

About RIDE! Space

RIDE! Space is a launch mission management company based in Paris, founded in 2020. Its platform provides satellite operators access to launch capacity across launch vehicles and orbital transfer vehicles, together with mission design, contracting, regulatory, logistics and launch campaign services. RIDE! Space has partnered with SEOPS on the Waymaker rideshare programme since 2024 and is a signatory to the ESA-backed Zero Debris Charter.

Media Contacts

Srishti Vasta, +91 98670 44794

Priya, +91 63636 20273

India’s Data Centre Boom Sparks Power, Cyber and Operational Risk Concerns: Howden Report

Report Title - Howden’s Insuring the Data Centre Supercycle Report

• Power consumed by data centres has risen 68-fold since 2016, while expansion at live sites is increasing construction and business interruption risk
• More than 90% of India's data centres have redundant capacity, yet non-damage outages and interconnected tenants continue to create insurance gaps

India's data centre expansion is creating concentrated risks across power, construction, water, cyber and operations, according to new research from Howden, the global insurance broker. The findings call for an integrated approach from site selection and design through construction and operation to build resilience and secure insurance.

Power infrastructure as the biggest risk factor

Howden’s analysis identifies power infrastructure as the biggest risk factor. The challenge is not just generation capacity but reliable grid connectivity, substation capacity and redundancy at each location.

Between 2016 and 2025, the power consumed by data centres built in India grew 68-fold, at a 60% CAGR as per the recent S&P data. The demand is forecast to reach 57 TWh by 2030. Increasingly, hyperscale campuses are looking to on-site, behind-the-meter generation to ensure a reliable supply. This changes the underwriting risk profile and increases the importance of location-specific power resilience assessments. Reliable, efficient supply is a commercial priority and energy accounts for about 65% of operating costs. Power resilience is especially crucial in these markets, with Maharashtra, Telangana and Karnataka accounting for approximately 70% of the capacity.

Construction at live sites raises business interruption risk

India added 7 million square feet of data centre space in 2025, with construction volumes growing at a 37% CAGR since 2016, the S&P data indicates. The average size of a new facility rose from 59,000 square feet in 2016 to 276,000 square feet in 2025, concentrating greater asset values at individual sites.

Between 2026 and 2030, planned expansion at existing data centres is equivalent to 78% of their current footprint. Construction alongside sensitive, high-value operations increases the risk of physical damage and business interruption, particularly during testing and commissioning. Construction and operational risks therefore need to be assessed within a single programme.

Redundancy does not remove outage and cyber risk

More than 90% of Indian data centres have redundancy built into their UPS, generator and cooling systems. However, outages still occur, often because of system failures that cause no physical damage and may not trigger traditional insurance. The market is developing solutions such as parametric cover, particularly for retail and wholesale providers. These providers account for 86% of India's data centres and carry uptime commitments to multiple customers.

These facilities also face the greatest systemic cyber exposure. A single compromise can affect the systems and workloads of hundreds of thousands of tenant organisations, while interconnected tenants increase the risk of lateral movement. Cyber risk therefore needs to be considered alongside property, power and operational exposures.

Water and Environment risks need early attention

Most data centres are located in urban centres where water availability is already under pressure. Cooling a 1 MW facility can require around 25.5 million litres of water annually. Water use, renewable power sourcing, energy efficiency, power usage effectiveness (PUE) and carbon footprint should form part of early site planning and risk assessment, rather than being addressed after construction.

Amit Agarwal, CEO, Howden India, said: "India's data centre story is not only about adding capacity. Power reliability, construction at operating sites, cyber concentration and water stress can all affect uptime. These risks need to be identified early and managed together, with insurance designed around the exposures that remain. This will help operators protect their assets and avoid gaps in cover as the sector expands."

Alongside risk transfer, the report highlights the need to build water and environment considerations into data centre planning from the start. This includes renewable power sourcing, energy efficiency and PUE, water availability and consumption, and the carbon footprint of large campuses. It also points to gaps in existing policy and insurance frameworks: water use is not adequately addressed, non-damage outages may fall outside traditional cover, and construction, power, cyber and operational risks are often treated separately. Closing these gaps will require stronger site-level risk assessment and more integrated insurance programmes.

Source: Howden analysis of NOAA and 451 Research by S&P Global

About Howden

Howden is a global insurance intermediary group with employee ownership at its heart. Founded in 1994, it provides insurance broking, reinsurance broking and underwriting services and solutions to clients ranging from individuals to the largest multinational companies. The group operates in 57 countries across Europe, Africa, Asia, the Middle East, Latin America, the USA, Australia, and New Zealand, employing 24,000 people and handling $51bn of premium on behalf of clients.

Website: www.howdengroupholdings.com

Vertiv Announces Agreement to Acquire UtilityInnovation Group to Accelerate Time to Power for AI Data Centers

• ~$1.45 billion acquisition expected to expand Vertiv’s addressable opportunity in power-constrained data centers
• Adds microgrid controls, onsite generation orchestration, microgrid-specific switchgear and behind-the-meter power architecture to Vertiv's portfolio
• Extends Vertiv's power and cooling portfolio from grid interconnect to chip, independent of any single generation technology or supplier
• UIG's proven team and proprietary technology expected to help customers accelerate time to power through grid-connected or grid-independent architectures

Vertiv Holdings Co. (NYSE: VRT) ("Vertiv"), a global leader in critical digital infrastructure, announced its wholly-owned subsidiary, Vertiv Corporation, has entered into an agreement and plan of merger to acquire Utility Innovation Holdings, Inc., which operates as UtilityInnovation Group ("UIG"), a leader in microgrid solutions, advanced power controls and behind-the-meter power architecture design for data centers, for approximately $1.45 billion in cash at closing, with additional consideration of up to $1.15 billion in cash based on achieving certain earnings before interest, taxes, depreciation and amortization ("EBITDA") targets over 12- and 24-month periods.

At the approximately $1.45 billion purchase price, the acquisition represents approximately 13x expected UIG 2027 EBITDA. The EBITDA multiple is anticipated to be significantly lower if the full earnout is paid. Vertiv expects the acquisition to be accretive to adjusted earnings per share in the first year following completion. Strategically, the acquisition extends Vertiv upstream to the grid interconnect, adding microgrid controls, onsite generation and energy storage orchestration, and behind-the-meter power architecture. These capabilities are expected to help data center operators secure power faster as grid constraints increasingly limit AI infrastructure deployment.

As power availability becomes a more critical factor in data center development, architecture decisions are moving earlier in the planning process. Microgrid systems can coordinate onsite generation and energy storage, reduce reliance on utility power and support the grid when needed. This is expanding the importance of power architecture at the earliest stages of site development, when decisions can have significant implications for downstream infrastructure.

"For AI data center operators, competitive advantage increasingly depends on how quickly they can move from site selection to first token," said Gio Albertazzi, Chief Executive Officer, Vertiv. "Vertiv has the most complete power and cooling portfolio in the industry. With UIG, we anticipate extending that portfolio upstream to the utility interconnect and onsite power sources, creating a coordinated architecture from source to chip without tying customers to a single generation technology or supplier."

Albertazzi continued: "Together, we anticipate being better positioned to support grid-connected sites, bridge-to-grid deployments and islanded sites supplied by onsite generation, while reducing complexity from site planning through rack-level deployment. This broader capability can help customers accelerate time to power and, ultimately, time to first token."

UIG Founder and CEO Sidney Hinton added: "UIG was founded to solve increasingly complex power challenges for data center operators through flexible, technology-agnostic architectures. Vertiv's global scale, critical infrastructure portfolio and service capabilities make it a strong strategic fit for what we have built. We believe this combination can expand the reach of UIG's microgrid controls and power architecture expertise and create greater value for customers as power becomes an increasingly critical constraint on data center growth."

Expanding Vertiv's Onsite Power Capabilities

UIG's expertise and technologies complement Vertiv's existing offerings:

• Experience: Design and delivery of microgrid systems for AI data center operators across the United States and Europe, supported by extensive utility relationships and experience with complex, large-scale deployments. UIG's designs are generation-agnostic, allowing architectures to be built around the technologies a site can permit, fuel and finance.
• Expertise: Behind-the-meter power architecture design that engages customers at the earliest planning stages, before equipment is selected. This enables Vertiv to help define the power blueprint that shapes downstream infrastructure decisions, supported by pre-validated reference designs for grid-connected, bridge-to-grid and islanded sites.
• Technology: Proprietary controls platform and pre-engineered microgrid switchgear that orchestrate multiple power sources in real time and coordinate them with the critical power train.

Today, Vertiv brings deep systems and controls expertise across the critical power train, supported by an end-to-end power and cooling portfolio and global service network. Combined with UIG, Vertiv expects to help customers design and deploy integrated power architectures that improve speed, resiliency, efficiency, and flexibility.

Expected customer and operator benefits include:

• Faster access to power with less dependence on utility interconnection timelines
• Ability to scale site capacity beyond what the grid alone can provide
• A single accountable relationship from grid interconnect through rack-level infrastructure

Together, these capabilities are expected to give customers greater flexibility in how they source, manage and scale power as data center requirements evolve.

About UIG

Founded in 2020, UIG is headquartered in Raleigh, North Carolina, with European headquarters in Dublin, Ireland, and manufacturing operations in North Carolina and New Jersey. The company designs and delivers power systems that support real-time load and frequency balancing across behind-the-meter systems and utility-connected energy resources, helping address the power demands of AI data center workloads. Its solutions include proprietary controls software, customized microgrid switchgear and energy storage.

The transaction is subject to regulatory approvals and customary closing conditions and is expected to close in the fourth quarter of 2026.

J.P. Morgan Securities LLC is acting as financial advisor to Vertiv, and Buchanan Ingersoll & Rooney PC is serving as legal counsel. Morgan Stanley & Co. LLC is acting as financial advisor to UIG, and Davis Polk & Wardwell LLP is serving as legal counsel.

For more information on Vertiv's leading portfolio of power and thermal management, infrastructure solutions, IT systems, and services for critical digital applications, visit Vertiv.com.

About Vertiv

Vertiv (NYSE: VRT) brings together hardware, software, analytics and ongoing services to enable its customers' vital applications to run continuously, perform optimally and grow with their business needs. Vertiv solves the most important challenges facing today's data centers, communication networks and commercial and industrial facilities with a portfolio of power, cooling and IT infrastructure solutions and services that extends from the cloud to the edge of the network. Headquartered in Westerville, Ohio, USA, Vertiv does business in more than 130 countries. For more information, and for the latest news and content from Vertiv, visit Vertiv.com. 

Global Tech Giants Back India’s $200B Data Centre Future

Commerce Minister Piyush Goyal has pitched India as a “trusted destination” for global data centres, highlighting investment commitments worth nearly $200 billion from hyperscalers like Google, Microsoft, Amazon, and Digital Connexion. He made this pitch during his Japan visit, inviting Japanese firms to partner in AI, semiconductors, and digital infrastructure.

The minister invited Japanese companies to partner with India in data centres, AI and semiconductors, highlighting around $200 billion in hyperscaler investment commitments.

Key Highlights of Goyal’s Pitch

Piyush Goyal in the Fireside Chat with Nikkei Asia in Tokyo on the India-Japan Next Generation Economic Partnership.

• Investment Commitments: Around $200 billion pledged by global hyperscalers for India’s data centre ecosystem.
• Major Announcements (Oct–Dec 2025):
  • Google: $15 billion
  • Microsoft: $17.5 billion
  • Amazon: $35 billion
  • Digital Connexion: $11 billion
• Policy Incentives: Indian government has proposed a tax holiday for data centres until 2047.
• Strategic Partnership: Goyal met Japanese Economy Minister Akazawa Ryosei, outlining four pillars of cooperation — trade, technology, investment, and tourism.
• Sectoral Focus: Collaboration in AI, semiconductors, and digital ecosystems, with India’s demand estimated at $150 billion.

Why India is Emerging as a Data Centre Hub

• Trusted Destination: India is positioning itself as a reliable partner amid global supply chain realignments.
• Policy Push: Incentives like tax holidays, renewable energy integration, and subsea cable projects.
• Talent Pool: India offers a large base of engineers, AI specialists, and IT professionals.
• Geopolitical Advantage: Seen as a safe harbour for digital infrastructure compared to other Asian hubs.

Comparison of Hyperscaler Investments in India

Company	Investment Size	Focus Area	Timeline
Google	$15B	AI & cloud infra (Vizag hub)	By 2028
Microsoft	$17.5B	AI-ready data centres	By 2029
Amazon	$35B	Hyperscale cloud infra	By 2030
Digital Connexion	$11B	AI infra & subsea cables	By 2029

Risks & Challenges

• Water & Energy Security: Large-scale AI data centres demand sustainable cooling and renewable energy.
• Execution Risk: Scaling commitments to operational capacity within tight timelines.
• Global Competition: India must compete with hubs in Singapore, UAE, and the U.S. for capital.

Starcloud Raises $250M to Scale AI Beyond Earth

Starcloud has raised $250 million in a Series A extension, boosting its valuation to $2.3 billion as it accelerates plans to build orbital data centers for AI workloads. The funding underscores growing investor confidence in space-based computing, with Nvidia and Cisco joining as strategic backers.

Starcloud aims to build orbital data centers leveraging continuous solar power and radiative cooling for large-scale AI compute.

Founded in 2024 2024 (originally as Lumen Orbit, later rebranded to Starcloud), Starcloud is a U.S.-based startup pioneering orbital data centers. Its founders are Philip Johnston (CEO, ex-McKinsey), Ezra Feilden (CTO, ex-Airbus Defence and Space), and Adi Oltean (Chief Engineer, ex-SpaceX and Microsoft Azure). The company has raised $450M to date, with investors including Benchmark, EQT, Manhattan West, NVIDIA, Cisco Investments, and others. 

Funding and Valuation

• Amount Raised: $250 million (Series A extension)
• Valuation: $2.3 billion post-money
• Total Capital Raised: $450 million since founding in 2024
• Lead Investor: Manhattan West
• Other Backers: Benchmark, EQT, Soma, NFX, 776, Nvidia, Cisco Investments, Cedar Capital, Goanna Capital, Standard Capital

Orbital Data Center Vision

• Core Idea: Move AI processing into orbit, reducing latency by analyzing data closer to where it is collected
• Advantages Over Earth-Based Centers:
  • No need for complex cooling systems
  • Continuous solar power without weather disruptions
  • Lower latency for space applications
• Target Scale: Constellation of 88,000 satellites delivering 20 gigawatts of compute capacity

Technology and Partnerships

• Nvidia Collaboration:
  • First NVIDIA H100 GPU flown to orbit in 2025
  • Development of Space-1 Vera Rubin Module, designed for radiation-heavy orbital environments
  • Future satellites expected to deliver 25x more compute than current H100 GPUs
• Cisco Role: Providing networking and AI infrastructure expertise for orbital systems
• Upcoming Hardware:
  • Starcloud-2 (2027): AI chips, storage, and backup modules
  • Starcloud-3: 200 kW satellites with advanced cooling and heat dissipation
  • Starcloud-4 (future): Cylindrical orbital data center with a 2.5-square-mile solar array

Manufacturing Expansion

• Facility: 100,000-square-foot plant in Woodinville, Washington
• Purpose: Mass production of Starcloud-3 spacecraft

Risks and Challenges

• High Capital Needs: Orbital infrastructure requires billions in long-term investment
• Launch Constraints: Reliance on SpaceX’s Starship as Falcon 9 phases out by 2028
• Regulatory Hurdles: FCC approval sought for 88,000 satellites
• Competition: SpaceX’s “Starmind” project envisions up to a million orbital data center satellites

Market Context

• SpaceX IPO Impact: Renewed investor enthusiasm for space-tech startups
• Global Trend: Orbital data centers seen as a solution to terrestrial bottlenecks in land, power, and water usage. 

Google’s $15bn Vizag Data Hub Faces Water Shortages and Wildlife Court Battles

Google’s $15 billion AI data centre hub in Visakhapatnam is facing mounting protests and legal challenges over water scarcity and environmental risks, with activists warning that the project could worsen the city’s already strained supply of 410 million litres per day against a demand of 480 million litres. Courts are now reviewing petitions about its impact on reservoirs and the nearby Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary.

Data centres consume huge water volumes for server cooling, raising fears of worsening water shortages.

As of August 6–7, 2026, the Vizag AI data centre project is under full construction but faces intensifying protests, legal scrutiny, and environmental concerns, with Andhra Pradesh High Court set to hear key cases on August 24.

Spread across three sites — Taluvada (266.6 acres), Adivivaram (160 acres), Rambilli-Achyutapuram (174.8 acres), the data centre site is 860m from Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary, home to leopards and pangolins.

Water Challenges

• Current supply vs demand: Vizag receives 410 million litres/day, but needs 480 million litres/day, leading to routine rationing for 2.5 million residents.
• Cooling needs: Hyperscale data centres consume vast amounts of water to cool servers, raising fears of worsening shortages.
• Activist concerns: Groups like Jal Biradari argue the project will strain nearby reservoirs, while slogans such as “We cannot drink DATA” have become rallying cries.

Environmental & Wildlife Risks

• Proximity to sanctuary: The site is just 860 metres from Kambalakonda Wildlife Sanctuary, home to leopards and pangolins.
• Noise & construction impact: Heavy machinery and terracing of hillsides could disrupt wildlife habitats.
• Legal cases: Multiple petitions filed in Andhra Pradesh High Court and India’s environmental court demand stricter review or halts.

Legal & Political Context

• Government stance: Andhra Pradesh, led by an ally of PM Modi, insists the project complies with regulations and denies fast-tracking allegations.
• Court hearings: The High Court will next hear public interest litigation on August 24, 2026.
• Global parallels: Similar protests against data centres have erupted worldwide, including 142 protests across 42 U.S. states in July 2026.

Comparison of Key Concerns

Issue	Details	Impact
Water scarcity	410 MLD supply vs 480 MLD demand	Risk of worsening rationing
Wildlife sanctuary	860m from Kambalakonda	Habitat disruption for leopards, pangolins
Legal challenges	Cases in High Court & environmental court	Possible delays, stricter oversight
Public protests	“We cannot drink DATA” marches	Growing local resistance

🚨 Risks & Outlook

• Water security: Without desalination or alternative cooling, Vizag’s residents may face deeper rationing.
• Wildlife impact: Sanctuary proximity raises long-term ecological risks.
• Execution risk: Legal delays could push back Google’s planned September 2028 operations.

In July 2026, 142 protests across 42 U.S. states targeted data centres over water and energy use. Google calls Vizag its largest AI hub outside the U.S., anchoring subsea cable gateways for India’s digital sovereignty. Despite hurdles, Google positions Vizag as a global AI hub, critical for India’s digital sovereignty.

Vertiv and IIT Madras Expand Data Center Skills Program to Maharashtra With RTMSSU Partnership

Vertiv's skills development funding program expands into Maharashtra to equip engineering students in data center operations and digital infrastructure management

Vertiv (NYSE: VRT), a global leader in critical digital infrastructure, supports the expansion of IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation's data center skilling initiative into Maharashtra through its corporate social responsibility (CSR) program. As part of this initiative, IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation also signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the Ratan Tata Maharashtra State Skills University (RTMSSU) in the presence of Maharashtra Governor, Jishnu Dev Varma, during the "Start-up Frontier 1.0" exhibition and conference held at the Y B Chavan Auditorium in Mumbai last July 10, 2026.
Vertiv has partnered with IIT Mumbai, IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation, and IIT (BHU) to help engineering students build practical skills in data center operations and AI-ready infrastructure. Through hands-on training and industry exposure, these initiatives prepare students for careers in the digital infrastructure industry.
Leveraging its deep expertise in power, cooling, and IT infrastructure, Vertiv will provide free skill development training to 1,500 engineering students in data center operations and digital infrastructure management in 2026. This builds on the collaboration launched by Vertiv and IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation in 2025 to strengthen India's pipeline of skilled talent for the rapidly growing digital infrastructure sector. RTMSSU will leverage its network of pre-incubation centers across 60 colleges in Maharashtra to extend the program's reach. Students will receive certified online training along with internship and mentorship opportunities designed to prepare them for careers in data center operations and digital infrastructure management.
Speaking about the initiative, Dr. A S Prasad, vice president product management and engineering, Vertiv India, said,
"India's digital infrastructure growth is creating increasing demand for professionals with specialized skills in data center operations and management. At Vertiv, we believe that building this talent pipeline requires close collaboration between the academia and industry. Through this initiative, we provide engineering students with practical knowledge, industry exposure and the skills needed to contribute to India's evolving digital infrastructure ecosystem. We are pleased to support IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation and Ratan Tata Maharashtra State Skills University in expanding this program to Maharashtra and enabling more students to prepare for careers in this high-growth sector."
Dr. M.J. Shankar Raman, chief executive officer, IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation, added,
"As artificial intelligence continues to redefine industries and economies, data centers have become central to this digital transformation. This rapid growth has created an urgent need for skilled specialists who can operate and maintain these essential facilities. Through this program, we are dedicated to building a workforce that supports India's AI ambitions with the technical talent required to sustain them."
For more information about Vertiv and career opportunities, visit Vertiv.com.

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About Vertiv

Vertiv (NYSE: VRT) brings together hardware, software, analytics and ongoing services to enable its customers’ vital applications to run continuously, perform optimally and grow with their business needs. Vertiv solves the most important challenges facing today’s data centers, communication networks and commercial and industrial facilities with a portfolio of power, cooling and IT infrastructure solutions and services that extends from the cloud to the edge of the network. Headquartered in Westerville, Ohio, USA, Vertiv does business in more than 130 countries. For more information, and for the latest news and content from Vertiv, visit Vertiv.com

Forward-looking statements

This release contains forward-looking statements within the meaning of the Private Securities Litigation Reform Act of 1995, Section 27 of the Securities Act, and Section 21E of the Securities Exchange Act. These statements are only a prediction. Actual events or results may differ materially from those in the forward-looking statements set forth herein. Readers are referred to Vertiv’s filings with the Securities and Exchange Commission, including its most recent Annual Report on Form 10-K and any subsequent Quarterly Reports on Form 10-Q for a discussion of these and other important risk factors concerning Vertiv and its operations. Those risk factors could cause actual results to differ materially from historical performance. Vertiv is under no obligation to, and expressly disclaims any obligation to, update or alter its forward-looking statements, whether as a result of new information, future events or otherwise.

About IIT Madras

Indian Institute of Technology Madras (IITM) was established in 1959 by the Government of India as an 'Institute of National Importance.' The activities of the Institute in various fields of Science and Technology are carried out in 18 academic departments and several advanced interdisciplinary research academic centres. The Institute offers undergraduate and postgraduate programmes leading to B.Tech., M.Sc., M.B.A., M.Tech., M.S., and Ph.D. degrees in a variety of specializations. IITM is a residential institute with more than 650 faculty and 10,000 students, with students from 18 countries enrolled. IITM fosters an active entrepreneurial culture with strong curricular support and through the IITM Incubation Cell. In 2023, IIT Madras became the first IIT to establish an international campus, in Zanzibar, Tanzania, called 'IIT Madras Zanzibar.'

IIT Madras Pravartak Technologies Foundation

IITM Pravartak Technologies Foundation is a Section 8 company housing the Technology Innovation Hub on Sensors, Networking, Actuators, and Control Systems (SNACS). It is funded by the Department of Science and Technology, Government of India, under the National Mission on Interdisciplinary Cyber-Physical Systems (NM-ICPS), and is hosted as a Technology Innovation Hub (TIH) by IIT Madras. The NM-ICPS is a comprehensive Mission aimed at complete convergence with all stakeholders by establishing strong linkages between academia, industry, Government, and International Organizations.

Ratan Tata Maharashtra State Skills University (RTMSSU)

Ratan Tata Maharashtra State Skills University (RTMSSU) is a state skills university set up by the Government of Maharashtra to expand vocational and technical skilling, entrepreneurship, and innovation capacity across the state, including through pre-incubation centers established across 60 affiliated colleges.

For media inquiries, please contact:

Himanshu Gonsola
Adfactors PR
E: Himanshu.gonsola@adfactorspr.com
MEDIA CONTACT FOR IIT MADRAS
IIT Madras Media Cell — Email: media.iitmadras@imail.iitm.ac.in / Landline: 044 2257 9785
MEDIA CONTACT FOR RTMSSU
Email – contact@mssu.ac.in | Phone: 8655946646/47

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Vertiv News Release

Kirloskar Oil Engines Secures 192 MW Order to Power HyperNext’s AI‑Ready Hyperscale Data Centers

Kirloskar Oil Engines Limited (KOEL), one of India's leading manufacturers of power generation solutions, today announced a significant order from HyperNext, a next-generation digital infrastructure company focused on delivering hyperscale-ready, AI-enabled data center solutions. The order comprises 192 MW, 96 units of KOEL's 2500 kVA Optiprime™ Dual Core power systems, representing one of the largest deployments of high-capacity power systems for hyperscale data centres in India.

(L - R) Akhil Saraf, Global Head, New Energy & CEO Kirloskar Solar; Madan Patil, President - Global Power Generation; Rahul Sahai C

The deployment will support HyperNext's mission to build resilient, scalable, and energy-efficient digital infrastructure capable of meeting the rapidly growing demands of cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and mission-critical enterprise workloads.

HyperNext has emerged as an innovative force in the digital infrastructure sector, developing future-ready data center ecosystems designed to support AI workloads, hyperscale cloud deployments, and enterprise digital transformation initiatives. The company's focus on sustainability, operational excellence, and advanced technology architecture aligns closely with KOEL's commitment to delivering reliable and efficient power solutions.

Harsh Macwann, Group CEO, HyperNext, said, "As we continue to expand our digital infrastructure footprint, reliability and performance remain central to our design philosophy. KOEL's Optiprime™ solution offers the scale, engineering sophistication, and proven operational performance required for our mission-critical environments. Being India’s first data centre with an 800VDC power architecture, this partnership reflects our shared commitment to enabling the next generation of digital infrastructure while maintaining the highest standards of operational resilience."

The collaboration highlights the convergence of two organizations focused on powering India's digital future—HyperNext through advanced data center infrastructure and KOEL through innovative power generation technologies.

The Optiprime™ platform combines multiple high-performance cores into a single integrated power system, delivering industry-leading power density, operational efficiency, and reliability. Designed specifically for hyperscale and mission-critical environments, these Uptime™ certified, DCCP (Data Centre Continuous Power) power systems platform enables data centre operators to optimize footprint utilization while ensuring uninterrupted power availability.

"This order reflects the growing confidence that digital infrastructure leaders place in KOEL's engineering capabilities and our ability to deliver reliable, high-performance power solutions at scale," said Madan Patil, President- Global Powergen Business, Kirloskar Oil Engines Limited. "As AI and cloud adoption accelerate globally, data centers require robust and resilient backup power systems that can support ever-increasing energy demands. Our Optiprime™ platform has been developed precisely to address these challenges, delivering exceptional performance, reliability, and operational efficiency for Hyperscale data centres."

With decades of manufacturing excellence and a growing portfolio of solutions tailored for mission-critical applications, KOEL continues to strengthen its position as a trusted partner for hyperscale data centers, cloud service providers, colocation operators, and enterprise customers across India and global markets.

As digital transformation, AI adoption, and data-intensive applications continue to drive unprecedented growth in infrastructure demand, partnerships such as this demonstrate the critical role of reliable power systems in enabling the digital economy.

Schneider Electric and Foxconn Unite to Build AI Factories

Schneider Electric, a global energy technology leader, today announced a strategic collaboration with Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn), the world’s largest electronics manufacturer, to help define and scale the next generation of AI data centers.

As AI adoption surges, the demands on digital infrastructure are being fundamentally reshaped. This collaboration brings together Foxconn’s unmatched expertise in advanced compute platforms, AI rack integration, and global manufacturing with Schneider Electric’s leadership in power systems, cooling, and energy management. Together, the companies aim to deliver integrated, ready-to-deploy solutions that enable customers to build and operate AI infrastructure with greater speed, efficiency, and predictability across regions. Production will begin later this year.

“At the pace AI is evolving, the industry requires a new model for how infrastructure is designed, built, and delivered,” said Young Liu, Chairman of Foxconn. “By combining Foxconn’s strength in AI systems and global manufacturing with Schneider Electric’s deep expertise in power and energy, we are creating a path for customers to deploy AI capacity at scale—faster, smarter, and more sustainably.”

"AI demand continues to accelerate, and as compute scales to keep pace, the energy behind it becomes a fundamental enabler,” said Olivier Blum, CEO of Schneider Electric. “If we want to scale AI responsibly, these systems must be connected. This is where energy intelligence becomes essential. At Schneider Electric, we are advancing energy tech to build the most efficient and sustainable AI factories by bringing integrated power, cooling, and digital capabilities into AI data centers. Working with Foxconn, we are helping customers build capacity with real speed, resilience, and efficiency, as energy technology partners to an industry that is firmly entering the era of intelligence."

Through this collaboration, Foxconn and Schneider Electric will co-develop next-generation reference architectures for AI data centers. The partnership will also explore innovations in closed-loop energy optimization, modular power and cooling skids, and standardized design frameworks, creating repeatable, high-performance blueprints for AI factories worldwide. By aligning manufacturing excellence with energy intelligence, the two companies are setting the foundation for a new class of AI infrastructure that is scalable by design, efficient by default, and ready to meet the accelerating demands of the AI era. 

About Foxconn

Hon Hai Technology Group (Foxconn) (TWSE:2317) is the world’s largest electronics manufacturer and leading technology solutions provider, ranking 28th in Fortune Global 500. In 2025, revenue totaled TWD8.1 trillion (approx. USD260 billion). The Group’s market share in electronics manufacturing services (EMS) exceeds 40% and covers four major product segments: smart consumer electronics; cloud and networking; computing; and components and other. Operating over 240 campuses across 24 countries, Foxconn is one of the world’s largest employers with approx. 900,000 employees during peak manufacturing season. We are committed to sustainability in the manufacturing process and serving as a best-practice model for global enterprises. The Group is guided by its 3+3+3 strategy, actively investing in industries of electric vehicles, digital health, and robotics; in technologies of artificial intelligence, semiconductors and next-generation communications; in intelligent platforms of Smart Manufacturing, Smart EV and Smart City. Foxconn is dedicated to becoming a comprehensive, world-class enterprise, with AI as its core driving force. Learn more at www.foxconn.com/en-us

About Schneider Electric

Schneider Electric is a global energy technology leader, driving efficiency and sustainability by electrifying, automating, and digitalizing industries, businesses, and homes. Its technologies enable buildings, data centers, factories, infrastructure, and grids to operate as open, interconnected ecosystems, enhancing performance, resilience, and sustainability. The portfolio includes intelligent devices, software-defined architectures, AI-powered systems, digital services, and expert advisory.

With 160,000 employees and one million partners in over 100 countries, Schneider Electric is consistently ranked among the world’s most sustainable companies.

www.se.com

India Bets on Nuclear Power to Fuel AI Data Centers

India is turning to nuclear energy to meet the surging power demand from AI-driven data centers, with a new Nuclear Energy Mission targeting 100 GW capacity by 2047. This move aims to ensure energy security, reduce fossil fuel dependence, and sustain hyperscale growth.

Why Nuclear Energy for Data Centers?

• AI workloads: A single AI server rack consumes 5–6 times more power than a conventional rack.
• Data center growth: India hosts <5% of global data centers despite accounting for 20% of global data consumption.
• Energy demand forecast: Capacity is expected to rise from <2 GW in 2025 to 8–15 GW by 2030.
• Policy push: The Nuclear Energy Mission aligns with India’s net-zero 2070 target and aims for 100 GW nuclear power by 2047.

Key Players Driving the Shift

• Reliance Industries: ₹1.6 lakh crore investment in a 1.5 GW AI cluster in Visakhapatnam.
• Google: $15B investment in a 1 GW hyperscale hub.
• Adani Group: $100B pan-India AI-ready infrastructure plan.
• Tata Group: Expanding with global partners like AWS and OpenAI.

Comparison: Energy Options for Data Centers

Energy Source	Reliability	Scalability	Carbon Impact	Suitability for AI
Nuclear	High	Very High	Low	Strong (stable baseload)
Solar	Medium (daylight dependent)	High	Very Low	Limited (needs storage)
Wind	Medium (seasonal)	Medium	Very Low	Moderate
Coal	High	High	Very High	Strong but unsustainable

Strategic Implications

• Energy Security: Nuclear reduces reliance on imported fossil fuels.
• Geopolitical Stability: Provides a resilient backbone for AI infrastructure amid global supply chain risks.
• Sustainability: Complements solar and wind to meet net-zero 2070 goals.
• Global Positioning: Positions India as a potential AI infrastructure hub, competing with Singapore, UAE, and US.

Small Modular Reactors (SMRs)

In late 2022, Union minister Dr Jitendra Singh has unveiled that India is taking steps for development of Small Modular Reactors (SMR), with up to 300 MW capacity to fulfill its commitment to Clean Energy transition.

SMRs are increasingly seen as a strategic solution to power India’s fast‑growing data center sector, offering clean, reliable baseload electricity that can sustain AI workloads and hyperscale operations. Experts highlight their role in ensuring energy security, resilience, and uninterrupted supply for mission‑critical infrastructure.

SMRs can directly power hyperscale clusters in Visakhapatnam, Hyderabad, and Mumbai. Unlike solar or wind, SMRs provide continuous electricity, crucial for AI clusters that cannot tolerate downtime.

Risks & Challenges of Nuclear Power in Data Centre 

• Execution risk: Scaling nuclear capacity from current levels to 100 GW by 2047 is ambitious.
• Cooling & water demand: AI data centers could drive water usage to 1,068 billion liters annually by 2028.
• Regulatory hurdles: Streamlined approvals across states are critical.
• Public perception: Nuclear projects often face opposition due to safety concerns.

Australia’s AirTrunk to Invest $30B in India, One of the Largest Commitments to S. Asia’s Digital Infra Sector

Blackstone-backed hyperscale operator AirTrunk has announced a landmark plan to invest $30 billion (₹3 lakh crore) in India by 2030, building over 5 GW of data centre capacity across multiple states to support AI and cloud infrastructure growth. This marks one of the largest digital infrastructure commitments in India’s history and to the South Asian nation’s digital infrastructure sector.

AirTrunk is a Sydney-based hyperscale data centre operator, founded in 2015 by Robin Khuda, and acquired by Blackstone and CPP Investments in 2024. It has rapidly expanded across Asia-Pacific and the Middle East, positioning itself as a leading provider of large-scale, sustainable cloud infrastructure.

In April this year, AirTrunk acquired Lumina CloudInfra to gain a 600 MW pipeline in Mumbai, Chennai, and Hyderabad. AirTrunk is one of the largest hyperscale operators in the Asia-Pacific & Middle East region, serving global cloud providers and enterprises.

Key Details of AirTrunk’s India Investment

• Scale of Investment: $30 billion (₹3 lakh crore) by 2030
• Capacity Target: More than 5 GW of hyperscale data centres
• Backers: Supported by Blackstone and CPPIB
• Entry into India: Acquired Lumina CloudInfra in April 2026 (600 MW pipeline)
• Strategic Focus: Expansion across states, renewable energy, subsea cable access
• Government Support: Welcomed by PM Modi

Why India?

• AI & Cloud Demand: India emerging as global hub
• Policy Frameworks: IndiaAI Mission (₹10,000 crore), Semiconductor Mission (₹76,000 crore)
• Talent & Energy: Skilled workforce and renewable energy
• Geopolitical Advantage: Safe harbour for investments

Economic & Strategic Impact

• Job Creation: Tens of thousands expected
• Supply Chain Localization: Boost to domestic suppliers
• Global Positioning: Strengthens India’s AI role
• Regional Competition: Competing with Google, Reliance, Adani

Comparison of Mega Data Centre Investments in India

Company	Investment Size	Capacity Target	Location Focus	Timeline
AirTrunk	$30B (₹3 lakh crore)	5 GW	Multi-state (Mumbai, Chennai, Hyderabad + expansion)	By 2030
Google	$15B	1 GW	Vizag	Ongoing
Reliance	₹1.08 lakh crore ($13B)	Giga-scale campus	Vizianagaram	Approved May 2026
Adani	$100B	Hyperscale AI-ready	Pan-India	By 2035

Risks & Challenges

• Power & Water Security: Renewable energy and desalination needed
• Regulatory Approvals: Streamlined clearances critical
• Global Competition: Competing with Singapore, UAE, US
• Execution Risk: Scaling from 600 MW to 5 GW

AirTrunk operates hyperscale data centres in Australia, Singapore, Japan, Hong Kong, Malaysia, and India. The Australian company provides colocation solutions for cloud, content, and enterprise customers, with real-time hyperscale capacity deployment.

AirTrunk was officially acquired by Blackstone and CPP Investments in December 2024. The deal gave Blackstone majority control of the Sydney-based hyperscale operator, marking one of the largest private equity transactions in Asia-Pacific’s digital infrastructure sector.This acquisition positioned AirTrunk to accelerate its Asia-Pacific and Middle East expansion, including its landmark $30B India investment plan by 2030.

Uber, Adani to Launch India Data Hub for Global Tech Expansion

Uber CEO Dara Khosrowshahi has confirmed that Uber will set up its first India data centre in partnership with the Adani Group, located in Ahmedabad, and operational later this year.

Key Highlights of the Announcement

• Partnership: Uber is collaborating with the Adani Group to establish the facility.
• Location: The data centre will be in Ahmedabad, Gujarat.
• Timeline: Expected to be ready later in 2026.
• Purpose: To test and deploy Uber’s technology at scale, supporting global operations “from India, for the world.”
• Strategic Context: India is one of Uber’s fastest-growing markets, with Bengaluru already serving as a major global tech hub.

Why This Matters

• For Uber: Strengthens engineering and AI infrastructure, supports real-time mobility platforms, predictive demand engines, fraud detection, and analytics.
• For Adani Group: Adds another layer to its AI-linked infrastructure strategy, complementing renewable-powered data centre plans and partnerships with Google and AdaniConneX.

This Uber-Adani partnership adds momentum to India’s positioning as a global hub for AI, cloud, and hyperscale infrastructure. 

Broader Industry Context

• Reliance Digital Connexion (JV with Brookfield & Digital Realty)
• NTT Global Data Centers
• STT GDC India
• CtrlS, Sify, Nxtra (Airtel), Yotta, Equinix

Risks & Considerations

• Energy Dependence: Adani’s renewable-powered promise will be tested against India’s grid reliability.
• Regulatory Oversight: Compliance with India’s Digital Personal Data Protection Act (DPDPA).
• Competition: Reliance, Google, and others scaling aggressively may create pricing pressures.

Quick Comparison: Uber vs Other Global Entrants

Company	Partner	Location	Capacity/Focus
Uber	Adani Group	Ahmedabad	Tech deployment, AI-ready
Google	AdaniConneX	Visakhapatnam	$15B AI hub, gigawatt scale
Reliance	Brookfield, Digital Realty	Andhra Pradesh	₹1.6 lakh crore, 1.5 GW cluster
NTT	Independent	Multiple cities	Hyperscale cloud, enterprise clients

Peter Thiel Bets on Ocean-powered Computing Future

Peter Thiel has led a $140 million investment in Oregon-based startup Panthalassa, which is building fleets of floating, wave-powered AI data centres designed to solve energy and cooling challenges. The funding values Panthalassa close to $1 billion and will accelerate deployment of its Ocean-3 pilot nodes in the Pacific by late 2026.

Panthalassa is a Portland, Oregon–based startup founded in 2016 by Garth Sheldon‑Coulson and others, focused on building floating, wave‑powered data centres. The $140 million Series B funding was led by Peter Thiel, along with investors including John Doerr, Marc Benioff’s TIME Ventures, Max Levchin’s SciFi Ventures, Hanwha Group, Super Micro Computer, Founders Fund, and Lowercarbon Capital

Panthalassa’s Vision

• Company: Panthalassa, founded in 2016 as a public benefit corporation.
• Mission: Harness ocean wave energy to power offshore AI data centres.
• Technology: Large floating steel “nodes” (≈85m long) that generate electricity from wave motion and use seawater for cooling.
• Connectivity: Data transmitted via low-Earth-orbit satellites (e.g., Starlink).
• Deployment Timeline:
  • 2026: Ocean-3 pilot series in the northern Pacific.
  • 2027: Commercial-scale operations.

Investment Details

• Lead Investor: Peter Thiel (PayPal & Palantir co-founder).
• Round Size: $140 million (Series B).
• Valuation: Nearly $1 billion.
• Other Backers: John Doerr, Marc Benioff’s TIME Ventures, Max Levchin’s SciFi Ventures, Hanwha Group, Super Micro Computer, Founders Fund, Lowercarbon Capital, among others.

Why Floating Data Centres?

• Energy Demand: AI workloads are straining land-based grids.
• Cooling Challenge: Traditional data centres consume massive amounts of water and power for cooling.
• Ocean Advantage:
  • Constant wave motion provides reliable renewable energy.
  • Seawater acts as free “supercooling,” extending chip lifetimes.
  • Offshore deployment avoids land costs, permitting delays, and grid bottlenecks.

Comparison: Land vs. Ocean Data Centres

Feature	Land-Based Centres	Panthalassa’s Ocean Nodes
Energy Source	Grid electricity (often fossil fuels)	Wave energy (renewable, abundant)
Cooling	Power-hungry chillers, water-intensive	Natural seawater cooling
Space Constraints	Limited land availability, high costs	Vast ocean space, scalable
Transmission	Grid + fiber networks	Satellite uplinks
Environmental Impact	High carbon footprint, local strain	Lower emissions, offshore footprint

Challenges Ahead

• Durability: Harsh ocean conditions could damage nodes.
• Maintenance: Offshore repairs are complex and costly.
• Regulation: Maritime laws and environmental approvals needed.
• Latency: Satellite transmission may not suit all workloads.

Big Picture

• Panthalassa’s project reflects a broader trend of moving AI infrastructure into unconventional environments—oceans, deserts, and even space.
• If successful, it could deliver ultra-low energy costs (≈$0.02/kWh) and redefine how the next generation of AI computing