Data Centres

Data centres are at the heart of our interconnected lives.

Once considered a niche asset, they now firmly belong to the mainstream, particularly in discussions about energy transition and the race to net zero. As the homes of the cloud and the powerhouses driving the promises—and challenges—of AI, they are becoming more critical than ever.

But as the sector continues to evolve, businesses face challenges including navigating complex regulations, securing financing, ensuring compliance with environmental standards, and addressing growing concerns around cybersecurity and data privacy.

The increasing interest and demand for data centres as investments and services have brought with them a complex web of laws and regulations. Success in this sector requires a nuanced understanding of power, technology, real estate and the intricacies of funding and finance.

Your partners in data centre law

Mirroring the integrated nature of the digital infrastructure we service, our data centre experts collaborate across various sectors within our firm. This multidisciplinary approach allows us to tackle challenges unique to our clients’ industries while identifying opportunities for cross-sector growth and innovation.

Bringing together specialists from real estate, energy, banking, digital business, funds, corporate, intellectual property and tax groups, we provide an integrated approach to legal advice across the transactional, advisory and disputes landscapes.

Our core services

Data centre development and construction

We support clients with legal guidance throughout the development and construction process, including permitting and zoning.

Employee data protection

Our expertise covers a wide array of issues, including workplace monitoring and the processing of special category personal data.

Data centre acquisitions

Our team facilitates acquisitions by providing due diligence support and negotiating purchase agreements.

Data centre platform M&A and joint ventures (JVs)

We advise on M&A transactions and joint ventures, helping clients navigate negotiations and regulatory approvals.

Co-location, leasing, and licensing

We assist in negotiating co-location and leasing contracts, ensuring critical operational concerns are addressed.

Power procurement and solutions (including renewables and battery storage)

Our experts advise on power procurement strategies and renewable energy options tailored for data centres.

Environmental, social, and governance (ESG) compliance

We guide clients on ESG compliance and best practices to enhance sustainability and corporate responsibility.

Telecoms, fibre, and network connectivity

We provide legal advice on telecommunications and network connectivity solutions essential for data centre operations.

Cybersecurity and data privacy

Our team offers strategic guidance on data protection and cybersecurity compliance, risk management, and incident response planning.

Data centre-related disputes

We represent clients in disputes related to data centres, including litigation and alternative dispute resolution.

Fund formation and advisory

We help clients form and manage investment funds focused on data centre assets, ensuring regulatory compliance.

Intellectual property (IP) and licensing

Our team supports clients in protecting IP rights and negotiating licensing agreements.

Cryptocurrency and digital assets

We advise on the legal implications of cryptocurrency and digital assets within data centre operations.

Sanctions advice

We provide counsel on sanctions compliance to minimise legal risks in data centre activities.