To generate the results of our Data centre cost index 2024, data centre benchmarking cost data was captured from more than 300 live or recent projects in more than 20 countries. All costs are converted into US Dollars.
To supplement our cost data, we also conducted an online poll of experts working across the data centre industry.
Cost data is captured under the following key capital cost headings: shell and core, architectural fit-out and finishes, mechanical and electrical fit-out, general contractor preliminaries, general contractor margin, general contractor contingency, and mechanical and electrical equipment. All costs are converted into a single currency, in this case, USD, using the foreign exchange rates advised by our economists.
Exchange rates
We used the FX rate on 5 September 2024 for the conversions to USD. 2024 continues to experience some significant exchange rate fluctuations between USD and other currencies.
Baseline model assumptions
Benchmarking cost data modified to represent a typical build-to-suit hyperscale data centre in the average range of 12-40MW. Multi-client colocation facilities or enterprise end-user facilities may change the indicated US$/W by up to 15 percent.
Shell and core
Our network of regional offices provided real project benchmark data for actual data centre shell and core construction expenses, where available.
Equipment
Actual quoted equipment costs have been applied and factored in as necessary. Additional costs per location are also applied for local sales tax/VAT, import duties and freight where applicable.
Construction labour and materials
The index results incorporate actual construction labour and material costs from live or recent projects in each market.
Preliminaries/general conditions and general requirements
The index results incorporate actual preliminaries/general conditions and general requirement costs from live or recent projects in each market.
Exclusions
The cost model does not include any client direct costs, land purchase costs, utility works, abnormal groundworks, site works, active IT equipment, fibre cabling to support office fit-outs or professional services fees.
Online data centre survey
In September 2024, we ran an online survey to gauge the views of data centre sector players on industry trends.
We received a total of 250 responses. Our respondents were based in/responsible for the following regions:
Figure 10
For which regions will your responses apply?
