February 6, 2025 - The Union League, New York City, NY
by Jake Ring, PDM Co-founder and President
The city that never sleeps did not disappoint in terms of gathering thought leaders and investors to the IMN Data Center PE Forum. Discussions I was involved in focused on the rapid advancements and challenges in AI and data center infrastructure.
AI is green?
Going against the grain, one C-Suite player emphasized the positive impact of AI for the environment given a wider adoption for advanced energy efficient technologies and the speed at which they are becoming available. It’s no secret there is a need for more cost effective analytical models, like the kind AI has the capacity to offer, and the growing demand for computing cycles. Data centers are essential for these advanced technologies including medical diagnostic advances and predictive analytics, which were also highlighted.
Data Center Investing
Conversations highlighted the importance of power generation and distribution, with a focus on investing in gas turbines and power generation to support the growing demand for data centers, renewable energy and modernization of the grid.
Tariff impact winners and losers
It is on everyone’s mind, Trump’s tariffs. The area of biggest concern is obviously the supply chains. But who might benefit? Many touted the benefits of modular data center systems, and the potential for moving the industry toward future-proofing data centers.
Follow the money
The allocation of Trump’s $10 billion in investment in the data center industry has many people placing their bets on various ventures including energy generation, power distribution, adaptable infrastructure and local economic development initiatives. And finally, the strategic importance of US-based manufacturing and the potential for tariffs to push onshoring development timelines.
