What could data centres look like in 2055?

A survey of 250 IT decision-makers across EMEA reveals that 45% say their current data center infrastructure does not support sustainability goals, while 90% expect AI to drive massive data growth and 62% see AI as the top influence on IT strategy. The research, conducted in August 2025, highlights growing demands for low latency, data sovereignty, and energy-efficient partnerships as traditional designs fall short.

What’s driving the change? From powering AI workloads efficiently to meeting urgent sustainability and compliance demands, the research shows traditional data center designs are falling short, with many IT leaders admitting their current infrastructure does not support energy or carbon-reduction goals. Here’s what IT leaders told us: – Sustainability Gap: Traditional data centers in EMEA are not fit for purpose when it comes to sustainability. 45% of IT leaders say their current infrastructure doesn’t support their sustainability goals, as AI and automation increase energy demands. – Data Sovereignty: Control is critical to competitiveness. 88% of IT decision-makers are already viewing data sovereignty as a priority and nearly 99% expect it to remain important over the next five years – Low Latency: Speed is an ongoing concern. 94% cite low latency as a top requirement today and in the years ahead, driven by the growth of real-time applications and edge computing. – AI Infrastructure Readiness: AI is outpacing the infrastructure needed to power it. 90% expect AI to drive massive data growth, and 62% expect AI and automation to have the greatest impact on IT strategy. However, fewer than half 41% feel ready to integrate AI effectively. – Partnership: Selecting a vendor and partner that can provide tangible impact is key. 92% of IT decision-makers prioritize technology partners who reduce energy use and carbon footprint. Fieldwork conducted in August 2025, surveyed 250 IT decision makers in companies of 250 employees or more in Germany, Italy, Norway, Sweden, the UK and UAE.