The Lifecycle of a Data Centre
Data centres power the digital economy. Developing, operating and regulating them demands decisive, joined-up choices spanning the entire lifecycle from planning to use.
Distinct lifecycle risks emerge at every stage.
As AI, cloud and edge reshape digital infrastructure, data centres have become regulated, capital‑intensive assets under close scrutiny. Bankability, performance and compliance hinge on decisions about site, power, cooling, sustainability, cybersecurity, finance and operations – at every stage. Osborne Clarke’s lifecycle approach identifies pitfalls to de‑risk delivery, accelerates time to power, and optimises operations.
The Six Phases
Navigate the complex landscape of data centre evolution through six critical stages.
Plan
The ‘Plan’ phase sets objectives, selects the site, defines the design and secures the necessary approvals and compliance.
Power
The ‘Power’ phase establishes grid connection, adequate capacity, and efficient cooling to enable stable, sustainable operations.
Finance
The ‘Finance’ phase arranges funding and capital structures, aligning risk, compliance and sustainability to support delivery and operations.
Build
The ‘Build’ phase delivers construction and commissioning to specification, schedule, budget and sustainability standards.
Operate
The ‘Operate’ phase maintains performance through capacity management, maintenance, security, resilience, audits and ongoing compliance.
Use
The ‘Use’ phase governs service procurement and consumption with clear contracts, SLAs, security standards and reporting.
Our Data Centre highlights
Our track record spans the full data centre lifecycle. Work highlights for clients include advising:
