NEWS
Inside Microsoft’s new ‘zero generator’ data centre Microsoft has said it is pushing the boundaries of data centre construction in the UK with its newest facility in Acton, west London, designed to operate entirely without backup diesel generators. Manufacturers warn UK’s lag on robotics risks national security Industry experts are warning that a failure to invest in automation in the UK could compromise national security. “If we don’t adopt robotics at scale, we risk being unable to meet domestic production needs for critical sectors, including defence,” said Sam Reid, Head of Business Operations at Cyber- Weld, speaking at the Southern Manufacturing Show. “Without sufficient automation, the UK could be forced to send sensitive
unique for a data centre of this scale,” said Éanna McDarby, Principal Program Manager, UK Data Centre Construction at Microsoft. “From initial site due diligence to commissioning, we’re focused on integrating design and operational efficiency in a way that hasn’t been done before in the UK.”
The five-storey site, currently under
construction, will run fully on renewable energy and forms part of a £330M UK expansion programme, which also includes centres in Leeds and Wales, all scheduled for completion between 2027 and 2029. “We’re talking about a facility that is completely
equipment abroad for production or welding.” According to the International Federation of Robotics, UK companies on average employ 111 robots per 10,000 employees, significantly below the global average of 141.
“Without scaling up robotics, the UK risks being unable to deliver critical products reliably, from defence systems to high-value industrial components,” added Peter Williamson, Policy Director at Automate UK.
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