Singtel is developing AI data centres (AI DCs) to meet the growing demand for high-performance computing capabilities while championing sustainability.
This is in line with Singapore’s updated AI strategy announced last night, which includes the allocation of carbon budget for data centres.
Singtel is building its fourth-generation data centre platform to cater to the escalating demands of AI workloads. Its vision involves creating hyper-connected, sustainable and high-powered data centres optimised for intensive GPU-centric AI applications.
“The advent of AI across diverse industries marks a pivotal moment for the data center landscape. We’re witnessing an upsurge in demand for high-density, sustainable AI DCs capable of managing GPU clusters for intensive compute environments,” said Bill Chang, CEO of Singtel’s Digital InfraCo unit.
The DC Tuas flagship project is set to be the largest with a staggering 58MW capacity. Not only will it accommodate higher power density AI workloads, but it’s also designed with sustainability at its core. The centre will incorporate innovative features such as liquid cooling technology to enhance energy efficiency, aiming for a remarkable Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) of approximately 1.23 at full load.
In addition to DC Tuas, Singtel is propelling its data centre endeavours in Thailand and Indonesia, foreseeing a pipeline capacity exceeding 200MW. This ambitious expansion is supported by a recent S$535 million five-year green loan. A strategic investment partnership with global investment firm KKR is earmarked to accelerate Singtel’s regional data centre business.
Singtel’s AI DCs will integrate cutting-edge cooling solutions and real-time monitoring platforms, safeguarding the integrity of expensive GPU clusters and ensuring seamless management of connected networks. These centres will be interlinked with Singtel’s fixed and 5G mobile networks, orchestrated by the Paragon platform, facilitating high-bandwidth, low-latency connections to support diverse AI applications at the edge.
“Our AI DCs will offer an array of essential services, including cloud co-location, managed hosting, and GPU-as-a-Service (GPUaaS). The increasing demand for agility in AI environments from enterprises and cloud companies propels our commitment to providing unparalleled GPU clusters within these centres,” said Chang.
With DC Tuas serving as an integrated submarine cable landing station, Singtel fortifies Singapore’s position as an AI hub in Asia, offering global connectivity and carrier neutrality, a magnet for enterprises and cloud companies seeking optimal locations for their AI workloads.
Entelechy Asia 