DigitalBridge Group, a leading digital infrastructure investment firm, has announced a strategic partnership with Aware Super, a Sydney-based super fund, to invest in Switch’s innovative renewable-powered data center platform. Switch, a prominent operator of exascale data centers, is renowned for its state-of-the-art energy-efficient power and cooling solutions for large-scale data center applications. This partnership marks a significant milestone in the growth and investment of Switch’s infrastructure.
Background of Aware Super and Switch
Aware Super, managing approximately $110 billion in assets as of July 1, is a globally renowned super fund based in Sydney, Australia. Its robust portfolio spans various sectors, including infrastructure investments. On the other hand, Switch operates five exascale data center campuses across the United States and has gained recognition for its novel energy-efficient power and cooling solutions. Notably, Switch recently underwent a take-private transaction in which DigitalBridge and IFM Investors acquired all outstanding common shares for approximately $11 billion, setting the stage for its future growth.
Aware Super’s Investment in Switch
In a major development, Aware Super has announced a significant investment in Switch, signaling its commitment to expanding its digital infrastructure portfolio. Mark Hector, Head of Infrastructure at Aware Super, expressed enthusiasm about the partnership, stating, “We are pleased to partner with DigitalBridge to invest in Switch as we grow our portfolio of digital infrastructure investments.” Aware Super recognizes the pivotal role of digital infrastructure in the ongoing digitization of the global economy and views Switch as a promising addition to their investment portfolio.
Alignment of Switch’s Platform with Aware Super’s Goals
Switch’s differentiating factor lies in its high-quality data centers and 100 percent carbon-neutral footprint. Mark Hector further notes, “Switch’s differentiated platform of high-quality data centers and 100 percent carbon-neutral footprint aligns with our purpose of delivering strong, risk-adjusted returns to our 1.1 million members.” The sustainable practices and commitment to carbon neutrality exhibited by Switch resonate with Aware Super’s mission of generating robust returns while prioritizing environmental consciousness.
DigitalBridge’s Perspective on the Partnership
Jon Mauck, Senior Managing Director at DigitalBridge, acknowledges the significance of digital infrastructure in the global economy. He comments, “Aware Super recognizes the role of digital infrastructure in the ongoing digitization of the global economy, and we welcome the opportunity to partner with them to invest in Switch.” DigitalBridge’s collaboration with Aware Super highlights their shared vision of bolstering the digital infrastructure landscape and driving innovation within the data center industry.
Switch’s Innovation and Renewable Power
Switch stands at the forefront of innovation in the data center industry, fortified by its renewables-powered digital infrastructure investment strategy. With a firm commitment to sustainability, Switch leverages its advanced power and cooling solutions to minimize its environmental impact while providing top-tier data center services. Kevin Smithen, Chief Commercial and Strategy Officer at DigitalBridge, asserts, “As a renewables-powered digital infrastructure investment, Switch is at the forefront of innovation in the data center industry.” The partnership with Aware Super represents an opportunity to further enhance Switch’s groundbreaking approach to sustainability.
Expansion of Aware Super’s Portfolio and Exposure
Through this strategic partnership, Aware Super will expand its investment into North America and Europe while increasing its exposure to high-quality digital infrastructure investments. Kevin Smithen highlights this expansion, stating, “We are delighted to partner with Aware Super as they further expand their portfolio into North America and Europe and increase their exposure to high-quality digital infrastructure investments.” This collaboration opens new avenues for Aware Super to diversify its investments and capitalize on the growing digital infrastructure market.
Significance of the Partnership
The partnership between DigitalBridge and Aware Super signifies a crucial step forward for Switch’s renewable-powered data center platform. It brings together the expertise of a leading digital infrastructure investment firm and an esteemed super fund, providing Switch with the necessary resources and support to foster innovation and accelerate its growth trajectory. Moreover, this partnership emphasizes the increasing recognition of data centers as critical components of the digital economy and reinforces the importance of sustainable practices within the industry.
The strategic partnership between DigitalBridge Group and Aware Super marks a significant milestone in the investment and expansion of Switch’s renewable-powered data center platform. This collaboration capitalizes on Switch’s innovation, sustainability, and commitment to delivering high-quality data center services. It also reflects the growing importance placed on digital infrastructure investments and the role they play in driving global digitization. As Switch continues to lead the charge in renewable-powered data centers, this partnership positions the company for further success and growth in the years to come.