DataVita Reverses Renewable Energy Claims for Scotland AI Hub
DataVita admitted its planned Lanarkshire AI datacentre will rely entirely on the National Grid, contradicting previous claims of direct renewable energy connections.
The datacentre company DataVita admitted that its planned AI development in Lanarkshire will be entirely served by the National Grid. This reversal contradicts previous assertions that the project would draw 1GW of renewable energy through direct private wire connections. The company now states the facilities will be fully grid served, though it maintains that power will be sourced via a renewable power purchase agreement.
The project is a central component of the United Kingdom's AI strategy and is intended to create 3,400 jobs in Chapelhall. To support the development, the Government of the United Kingdom provided £202 million in wealth guarantees through its national wealth fund.
The admission comes amid wider concerns over the viability of the UK's AI growth zone strategy, specifically regarding grid connection delays and high energy costs. Action for Protecting Rural Scotland criticized the claims of datacentre developers, noting that hyperscale AI facilities cannot run on renewable power alone and require highly reliable grid power.
