Powering AI: The Rise of Net-Zero Data Centers
Artificial intelligence is reshaping industries but powering it sustainably is the next great challenge. Datavolt is tackling this head-on with a next-generation Net-Zero AI data center in Oxagon, NEOM’s reimagined industrial city.
The exponential growth of artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud computing is driving global demand for high-performance, energy-efficient digital infrastructure. Yet most traditional data centers were not designed for this future, they are resource-intensive, inflexible, and carbon-heavy.
To address these constraints, DataVolt is developing one of the region’s first Net-Zero AI data centers within Oxagon. The 300 MW facility will be powered by a portfolio of renewable energy sources including solar, wind, and green hydrogen.
This next-generation development is engineered to support high density AI computing, leverage advanced cooling methods, and prioritize sustainability at scale. With a focus on flexibility and efficiency, it represents a milestone in clean digital infrastructure.
Modular by design. Scalable by nature.
Traditional data centers often require extensive retrofitting to support the next wave of AI workloads. DataVolt’s modular approach avoids this by integrating prefabricated, scalable systems from the outset.
These modules include AI-driven energy management and dynamic cooling systems to maximize performance while minimizing energy use and cost. They support high power density for AI workload deployments, engineered to accommodate next-generation chips and hardware.
Prefabricated construction also helps reduce build time, construction waste, and emissions, reinforcing circular economy principles central to Oxagon’s industrial philosophy.
Cooling innovation for carbon efficiency
AI computing generates enormous heat. At scale, efficient thermal management becomes critical, not just for performance, but for sustainability.
At the DataVolt AI Factory, advanced thermal management systems are employed, leveraging seawater-based free cooling to support direct-to-chip liquid cooling for high-performance computing (HPC) components.
This is complemented by air-cooled Fan Wall Units (FWUs), which regulate ambient air conditions within the data halls for network equipment and ancillary IT systems.
The cooling infrastructure, along with other critical facility systems, is integrated with real-time predictive analytics to enable continuous monitoring and dynamic optimization of system loads and thermal performance in response to operational demands and environmental conditions.
Together, these systems significantly reduce energy consumption and improve overall Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE).
Renewable-powered, resilience-ready
To ensure maximum uptime and operational resilience, the facility is designed with a layered backup system, including long-term embedded battery energy storage, supported by hydrogen-based power generation. This robust setup enables continuous autonomous operation during outages or fluctuations in renewable energy supply.
The data center’s energy model is designed to prioritize renewable sources, advancing progress toward low-carbon, resilient AI infrastructure.
Hyperscalers and the future of AI infrastructure
As AI models become more complex and compute-intensive, businesses require future-ready infrastructure that can evolve with them. That means higher throughput, lower latency, and rapid scalability.
DataVolt’s facility will be connected via subsea fiber optic infrastructure capable of delivering up to 15 Tbps to Europe and Asia, and 2 Tbps to Africa, making Oxagon a strategic node in the global data network.
With its modular architecture, renewable energy integration, and future-ready bandwidth, the data center is designed to meet the needs of hyperscalers, cloud providers, and enterprise innovators.
Positioning Oxagon at the forefront
By enabling developments like DataVolt’s Net-Zero AI data center, Oxagon reinforces its position as a launchpad for advanced, clean industrial transformation.
With access to a growing mix of renewable energy sources and a future-focused urban environment, Oxagon offers tenants a truly next-generation platform where sustainable AI infrastructure can scale.
Ultimately, this is more than powering data. It is about shaping a future where intelligence and sustainability go hand in hand.
Seasoned leader with a track record of IT transformations | Building secure, compliant, and resilient environments across the UK, Europe, Africa & USA | I help global organisations turn Service into strategic advantage.
1moThis is the kind of future-forward thinking that excites me! Infrastructure that doesn’t just keep up with AI, but leads the way sustainably. 🌱⚙️ The Net-Zero AI data center by DataVolt is a powerful example of how modularity, innovation, and clean energy can come together to drive real impact. From subsea fiber to liquid cooling, this is what next-gen digital infrastructure should look like. Kudos to Oxagon and NEOM for pushing the boundaries. Would love to explore how I can contribute to this bold journey. #AIInfrastructure #SustainableInnovation #ShegunSucceeds
Market Reader | Deep Researcher | Sales Leader | AI | PMP | Strategic Thinker | Scuba Diver .. Enjoying Life!
2moGreat work and exciting progress! I noticed the article highlights the use of seawater-based free cooling, which is a smart move for energy efficiency. However, it didn’t go into detail about how thermal discharge is managed. I’m curious how is the impact on marine ecosystems being addressed? Are there specific measures in place to ensure that elevated water temperatures don’t harm local sea life or disrupt the marine environment? It would be great to learn more about how Oxagon and DataVolt are balancing technological innovation with marine biodiversity protection.
Civil Engineer | Project Engineer | Project Manager | Mega & Government Projects | PMP®, RMP®, P3O® | Vision 2030 Focused | Makkah & Jeddah
2moImpressive vision — building AI infrastructure that’s not only powerful, but also planet-conscious. This is how the future should be shaped: innovation with responsibility. 💡🌍 #SustainableTech #AIInfrastructure #NetZero #NEOM #Oxagon #DataVolt #GreenInnovation #FutureReady