**Expanding AI Means Infrastructure Changes—And More**
Artificial intelligence (AI) is a significant driver behind the surge in data center development across North America. As AI applications become more complex and widespread, the requirements for supporting digital infrastructure are evolving rapidly.
According to CBRE’s recent analysis, some hyperscale data center campuses currently under development aim to deliver over 1 gigawatt of capacity at a single location. These massive operations are being designed to meet the growing computational needs driven by AI and machine learning technologies.
Emerging companies, such as those offering GPU-as-a-Service and operating in the Neocloud space, represent a new generation of cloud computing providers. They utilize specialized processing units to offer fast, flexible, and scalable computing solutions that cater specifically to AI-driven workloads.
These shifts are redefining what’s required from data center infrastructure—particularly in terms of power availability, physical design, lease structures, and network connectivity.
**Power Capacity is Essential**
A major takeaway from CBRE’s report is that readily available power capacity is now a top priority. Data center occupants are looking for facilities that can support high-density computing, rapid deployment, and continuous operational uptime. Many are specifically seeking contiguous space offering 5 to 20+ megawatts (MW) of capacity, with the ability to become operational within nine months.
**Space Design Matters More Than Ever**
Cloud operators and enterprise users increasingly prefer facilities that allow for modular growth. This flexibility enables them to scale power density and expand floor space as needed. It also allows seamless transitions between wholesale and retail colocation models as workloads fluctuate, aligning infrastructure with evolving business demands.
**Rethinking Lease Agreements**
Traditional long-term leases may not always suit modern data center users. Flexible lease structures are becoming a competitive advantage, with shorter terms, renewal options, and turnkey deployments emerging as key differentiators for landlords.
**Connectivity is Crucial**
Tenants now expect high-fiber density and carrier-neutral ecosystems that offer direct cloud on-ramps, diverse network routes, and low-latency interconnections with major exchanges. In addition to performance, compliance with standards such as ISO, SOC 2, PCI-DSS, HIPAA, and regional data privacy requirements is also demanded.
CBRE analysts concluded that the ability to scale, interconnect, and sustain at speed will define the success of data center operators moving forward. “Operators that meet this expectation will define the digital landscape of 2025 and beyond,” they noted.
