A leader in technology innovation and telecommunications, Canada has seen a substantial upswing in the demand for data centres. Over 1-million SF of data centre space has been built in Canada and an additional 100 MW of power was added to the market over the last three years. Research shows that 90 per cent of organizations will adopt hybrid infrastructure technology delivery models, including cloud services and infrastructure-as-a-service (IaaS), by 2020. From an increasing population to abundant natural resources, the Canadian market offers end-users attractive, low-risk options for the storage of their sensitive information and data. In celebration of Canada’s 151st anniversary, Urbacon Data Centre Solutions Inc. (UDCS) examined Canada’s journey toward becoming a major player in the data centre world.
Canada’s technology industry has undergone a revolution in recent years. With many Fortune 500 companies positioning themselves in the Canadian data centre market, the region provides unique opportunities for tech companies and industry experts. According to IDC Canada, The Internet of Things (IoT) will be valued at between $2.7-trillion and $5.2-trillion by 2025. Recognizing the trajectory and momentum of this phenomenon, Canada has made significant contributions to developing a thriving tech-based education system, including investments in information technology-specific institutions and courses within existing universities and colleges. Canadian tech schools and programs rank amongst the world’s best and have allowed for the formation of a highly-educated and knowledgeable workforce from which to source staff and personnel.
A recent focus on power distribution in Canada has provided auspicious opportunities for technology companies. With our energy sector accounting for close to ten per cent of our nominal GDP, Canada is the world’s sixth largest energy producer. From 2015 to 2016, 79, 245 MW of power was exported globally and, during that same timeframe, the Canadian government invested $900-million into energy research, development and deployment. With more and more electrical plants materializing across the nation, Canada is expected to add substantial power to their portfolio. With a focus on green technology, 65 per cent of Canada’s power comes from renewable energy sources. Access to abundant power makes the country an excellent choice for highly-dense or hyperscale configurations.
The Canadian government has also made deep strides in the promotion of programs and incentives to further sustainable practices in business operations and activities. The Ontario-based High Performance New Construction initiative, for example, has allowed data centre owners and operators to achieve some of the lowest power usage effectiveness (PUE) ratings on the planet. By capitalizing on these government-sanctioned initiatives, UDCS’ DC1 data centre facility earned the Alectra Utilities Inc. Energy Evolution in New Construction Award.
In addition to a robust economy, attractive dollar valuation, free cooling options, and a legislative climate that enforces data privacy and fosters immigration, Canada has successfully established itself as a desirable destination for reliable data storage and safeguarding. With burgeoning urban centres built upon multiculturalism, connectivity, innovation, pedagogy, confidentiality, and entrepreneurialism, this is surely just the beginning of Canada’s success story.
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