UK data centre growth could spark green energy investment

Coordinated action amid huge growth in data centres could unlock £35bn of investment in green energy, according to a new report.

Aurora Energy Research said that by working together, data centre developers, grid operators, and low-carbon power providers could deliver huge benefits for the UK.

However, it also warned the “stakes are high” if they fail to take strategic action with the risk power sector emissions could rise by 14% and wholesale electricity prices could climb significantly.

The report said clearer policy support for demand-side connections and facilitating access to low-carbon power are key to supporting sustainable datacentre growth.

Brian Potskowski, Head of Advisory for UK & Ireland at Aurora Energy Research, said: “The unprecedented growth in data centres presents Britain with both significant risk and tremendous opportunity. This is not just a challenge for the tech sector—it’s a critical inflection point for successfully delivering the energy transition.”