US-based colocation data center giant Equinix made its largest European commitment to date with a £4 billion (US$ 5.28 billion) investment to build a new data center in South Mimms, Hertfordshire, UK. The 85-acre site will deliver 250 MW of processing capacity and is expected to be operational by 2030.
According to a Sky News report, the announcement represents a major boost for Britain’s tech infrastructure at a time when energy costs and environmental concerns are testing investor confidence.
Technology Secretary Liz Kendall told the publication that the decision represented “a huge vote of confidence in Britain,” adding that the government aims to support digital growth while ensuring sustainability.
Equinix’s UK managing director James Tyler said, “The company chose Britain for its strong market demand, government support and digital economy.”
Labour-controlled Hertsmere Council approved the project after an emerging government classification for previously developed or strategically located green belt areas near infrastructure. The construction site, bordered by the M25, A1(M) and Potters Bar, was deemed a suitable location. The center will be powered by 100% renewable energy and feature air cooling systems to reduce water usage.
The UK’s total capacity stood at around 1,566 MW (~1.6 GW) last year according to a report from the UK Government in 2024. Given this, the Equinix project will account for a sixth of national output growth.
According to the United Kingdom Data Center Market Report from Mordor intelligence, the UK market size is estimated at US$ 15.23 billion in 2025, and is expected to reach US$ 28.45 billion by 2030 at a Compound Annual Growth Rate (CAGR) of 13.31 percent. IT load capacity is anticipated to surge from 3.22 GW in 2025, to 12.41 GW by 2030, coming to a CAGR of a whopping 30.97 percent, during the forecast period.
Meanwhile, Statista’s Artificial Intelligence UK Report projects the UK Artificial Intelligence (AI) market to reach US$ 15.30 billion in 2025, and go up to US$ 96.29 billion by 2031 at a CAGR OF 35.88 percent.