Plans in for phase one of Sembcorp’s 1m sq ft Teesside data centre
The Singapore-based energy company will work in partnership with digital infrastructure specialist Digital Reef to deliver the site at Wilton International.
The first phase of the development, covered by the application, intends to provide up to 280MW capacity and support high-performance computing, artificial intelligence and machine learning workloads, powered using available capacity from the existing Greystones Substation to the south, with cables entering through existing service corridors along the southern boundary.
Planning consultant Heatons has worked on the project, with plans for the campus including up to three main data centres, ancillary infrastructure, including generators, electrical plants, and chillers.
Subject to planning approval, Sembcorp Wilton International Data Centre could be ready for construction to commence by the latter part of this year.
Located towards the north western edge of Wilton International, the brownfield site is approximately 4.3km south west of the centre of Redcar and approximately 6.3km from the centre of Middlesbrough.
Wilton International is a 2,000-acre industrial park in Teesside owned and managed by Sembcorp, which focuses on clustering sectors including energy intensive manufacturing, chemicals, and sustainable technologies at its site, which has the UK’s largest private-wire electricity grid and four power generation units using multiple fuel types.
Digital Reef, meanwhile, has a self-proclaimed mission to develop a sustainable data centre platform that can be scaled globally.
Mike Patrick, chief executive of Sembcorp Energy UK, said: “Wilton International offers data centre operators a unique combination of large-scale power availability, established infrastructure, and strong connectivity, enabling faster and more efficient deployment at scale.
“As one of Teesside’s leading industrial sites, it is also well-positioned to meet the UK’s digital infrastructure needs while driving investment, strengthening industry and creating sustainable, high-value jobs in the region.”
Piers Slater, chief executive of Digital Reef, explained: “From our first engagement with Sembcorp Energy UK, we recognised strong potential within the Wilton International site.
“Its existing large grid connection, behind-the-meter power assets, utilities, infrastructure and connectivity make it an attractive proposition and enable a fast and agile route to market.
“We look forward to working with Sembcorp Energy UK on this significant development.”
