Equinix launches new Singapore data center to fuel AI expansion

The growing demand for AI infrastructure and sustainable computing solutions has prompted Equinix to announce its sixth data center in Singapore, representing a USD 260 million investment in digital infrastructure.

Project overview and significance: The new International Business Exchange (IBX) data center, designated as SG6, marks a significant expansion of Equinix’s presence in Singapore’s digital infrastructure landscape.

• The facility is scheduled to open in Q1 2027 with a capacity of 20 MW
• The project is part of Singapore’s pilot Data Centre – Call for Application (DC-CFA) program
• The 9-story facility aligns with Singapore’s Green Plan 2030 and Smart Nation initiatives

Technical capabilities and AI focus: SG6 is designed to support the increasing demands of compute-intensive workloads and artificial intelligence applications.

• The data center will feature liquid cooling technology, which provides more efficient heat transfer compared to traditional air cooling systems
• Low-latency, high-bandwidth connections will enable seamless AI workflows across regions
• The facility integrates into Equinix’s global network of data centers, facilitating distributed AI operations

Environmental commitments: Sustainability stands at the forefront of the SG6 design and operational strategy.

• The facility will be powered by 100 percent renewable energy through a power purchase agreement with Sembcorp Industries
• Implementation of lower-carbon building materials reduces the construction environmental impact
• Energy-efficient water-cooled chillers, cooling towers, and rainwater harvesting capabilities further enhance sustainability

Strategic partnerships: Equinix has formed key collaborations to advance sustainable data center practices.

• Partnership with the National University of Singapore’s College of Design and Engineering focuses on infrastructure modernization
• Collaboration with IMDA and Dell Technologies aims to optimize hardware-software efficiency
• These partnerships explore alternative power systems and sustainable solutions

Regional expansion context: The SG6 project represents part of Equinix’s broader Asia-Pacific growth strategy.

• Equinix currently operates 268 data centers globally across 73 metros and 34 countries
• The Asia-Pacific region hosts 59 data centers across 15 key metros
• Recent market entries include Indonesia, the Philippines, and Thailand

Looking ahead: As compute-intensive workloads continue to grow exponentially, SG6’s strategic positioning in Singapore’s digital ecosystem, combined with its sustainable design, could serve as a model for future data center developments in the region. The focus on AI readiness and environmental responsibility suggests a shift in how data centers will be designed and operated in the coming years.