By investing in data centres, nations can strengthen the capacity, security and agility of their digital economies, while unlocking wider community benefits through collaboration with developers and occupiers. When thoughtfully planned and built in partnership with local stakeholders, data centres have the potential to  become engines of prosperity and social value.

Jobs and opportunities

The construction of a data centre requires a highly skilled workforce of engineers, electricians, builders, project managers and specialised contractors. This can deliver a significant economic boost to local areas and create accessible employment pathways for local people. Once operational, the complexity of data centres continues to demand ongoing human oversight, maintenance and technical upgrades.

Data centre developments also have the potential to help bridge the digital skills gap, inspiring greater digital literacy and ambition within communities. Many developers and operators are now partnering with local schools, colleges and universities to offer training, apprenticeships and early career opportunities in construction, IT, engineering and data science. Additionally, the inclusion of social infrastructure such as community spaces and multifunctional skills hubs can further support local upskilling and raise aspirations.

Environmental considerations

Data centres are often perceived as heavy energy consumers, but that’s not always the case. While they do require substantial power to meet peak demand, many modern facilities are designed with sustainability in mind. When connected directly to solar or wind farms, supported by battery storage systems, data centres can generate and store a portion of their own energy. This reduces their reliance on the grid and improves overall efficiency.

Internationally, some data centres are going even further reusing waste heat to warm nearby homes or public buildings through connections to district heat networks as well as investing in water-efficient cooling technologies. These measures not only shrink their environmental footprint but also deliver tangible local benefits, from lower heating costs to better air quality. Put simply it means being a good neighbour.

Collaboration is key

For data centre developments to reach their full potential as engines of community benefit, collaboration is key. Developers must work transparently with local authorities, educators and community groups to ensure that the benefits are widely shared. This means consulting with residents from the earliest planning stages, committing to local procurement and employment, integrating educational and training initiatives into development plans and continuously  reporting on community impact.  It’s vital is that the conversation is open, so that data centres become not just neighbours, but partners in local progress creating great legacies for communities. 

Mutual benefit

Data centres may not be the most visible or glamorous features of our towns and cities, but their potential to deliver social value is immense. By strengthening national infrastructure, creating jobs, nurturing digital skills, investing in communities and advancing environmental progress, developers and operators together can help shape a brighter and more connected future.

Further information

Contact Georgina Nimmo or Luisa Mostarda

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