Digital Realty, a leading provider of data center solutions, has recently unveiled its plans for a new data center in Marseille, France. This strategic move aims to further enhance Digital Realty’s footprint in the region and meet the growing demands for reliable and efficient data management services. The new facility, known as MRS5, promises to offer substantial capacity and cutting-edge technology to support the digital infrastructure needs of various industries.
Expansion details
MRS5, Digital Realty’s latest data center, is set to be an impressive addition to its portfolio. Spanning across 12,000 square meters (129,165 square feet) of white space, the facility will boast a robust power capacity of 22MW. This significant capacity will enable Digital Realty to meet the escalating requirements of its customers and provide them with scalable solutions for their data management needs. The construction will be implemented in phases, with the first phase anticipated to go live in 2026.
Efficiency and sustainability
One notable aspect of Digital Realty’s expansion plans is its commitment to efficiency and sustainability. The company aims to operate MRS5 with a remarkable Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) rating of 1.3. This PUE rating signifies that the data center will effectively utilize energy resources, minimizing waste and reducing its environmental impact. By aligning with sustainable practices, Digital Realty continues to prioritize ecological responsibility while delivering exceptional data center services.
Historical background
The chosen site for MRS5 holds historical significance, as it is a silo that has stood since the 1960s. However, the silo has been abandoned since 2015, presenting Digital Realty with a unique opportunity to repurpose the structure. The vacant complex surrounding the silo includes several structures, such as a spacious 3,600 square meter storage building, a sturdy weighing tower, a convenient truck delivery dock, and reliable conveyor belt transfer equipment. Digital Realty recognizes the potential in repurposing these structures to create a state-of-the-art data center facility.
Challenges and Remediation
While the silo conversion offers exciting prospects, it also comes with challenges. One such challenge is the presence of asbestos on the site—a common issue in older structures. To ensure the safety of its employees, contractors, and the local community, Digital Realty has partnered with Ecolex, a renowned local company specializing in hazardous material removal. Ecolex will carefully remove and remediate the asbestos during the demolition work, ensuring a safe and compliant environment for the construction phase.
Digital Realty’s presence in Marseille
This expansion in Marseille is not Digital Realty’s first venture into the region. The company initially established its presence in 2014 by acquiring a data center from SFR, a prominent French telecommunications provider. Since then, Digital Realty has continued to solidify its foothold with the operation of multiple data centers in Marseille. In addition to MRS5, the company currently manages MRS2, MRS3, and MRS4, all conveniently located within a 500-meter radius of the new site. This extensive network of data centers enables Digital Realty to offer diverse services and seamlessly cater to the evolving demands of its clientele.
Expansion Plans
Digital Realty’s ambitious expansion plans in Marseille extend beyond MRS5. During its Q3 2023 earnings call, the company announced the acquisition of approximately 27 acres of land near Marseille. This €47 million ($49m) investment signifies Digital Realty’s commitment to future growth and its confidence in the city’s potential as a thriving digital hub. The acreage will support the construction of a sixth data center facility, further bolstering Digital Realty’s presence in Marseille and reinforcing its position as a premier data center provider.
Digital Realty’s new data center in Marseille, MRS5, represents a significant milestone in the company’s expansion strategy. This state-of-the-art facility will offer expansive white space, reliable power capacity, and a strong focus on operational efficiency. With its commitment to sustainability and environmental responsibility, Digital Realty is leading the way in delivering forward-thinking data center solutions. The redevelopment of the historical silo site, along with the partnership for asbestos removal, showcases the company’s adaptability and attention to safety. As Digital Realty continues to expand its presence in Marseille, customers can expect enhanced services and seamless connectivity within the region’s thriving digital ecosystem.