How to make the UK an AI leader

The UK is at the epicentre of an AI revolution. It has the ambition, drive and intellectual capital to compete against the best that the world can offer. But there are barriers holding back the growth of critical data centre infrastructure, which enables so much that AI has to offer – from NHS digitisation to online learning. Power connection lead in times and the high cost of power are limiting factors. Poor public perception of the industry is hindering societal acceptance, and the planning system exacerbates the difficulties.  

On 26 June together with Copper Consultancy, a strategic agency with expertise in infrastructure and built environment, we hosted an industry roundtable, which focused on the steps needed to accelerate data centre delivery across the UK.

“How to make the UK an AI leader” is the resulting report, brought to you by Copper Consultancy and Charles Russell Speechlys in collaboration, which considers the current challenges and outlines actionable solutions.

Whilst the Government’s AI Opportunities Action Plan commits £2bn to AI Growth Zones, to accelerate infrastructure delivery, there is more that both the industry and Government can, and should, be doing. Industry is already embarking on innovative energy solutions to resolve grid connection problems, but there is more that can be done to use excess heat and engage more heavily with communities to achieve a social licence to operate.

Further Government measures are required. The AI Growth Zone initiative shouldn’t be too rigid but should work with the market. Data centres should be included in the eligibility criteria for energy relief schemes similar to heavy industrial energy users, and swifter grid connections enabled. Planning policies for data centres need updating and a tailored classification within the industrial B8 use class should ease the planning process.

To be an AI leader and unlock economic growth, the UK needs to make a clear and compelling case for data centres. Action taken now to alleviate some of the barriers will boost the UK as an AI leader.

Read the full report here including the key asks of business and Government. 

If you have any questions, please contact Mark Bailey, Eddie Richards, Josh Risso-Gill or Kevin Gibbs.