Drakes Energy Plans to Build a 100-Megawatt Data Center to Support AI Growth in Yorkshire
Drakes Energy has announced plans to upgrade its power station near Selby by establishing a new data center with a capacity of 100 megawatts, aiming to contribute to the growth of artificial intelligence applications.
The commercial center is expected to begin operations by 2027. The project is part of the company’s plans to repurpose part of its existing facilities and grid connections at the Yorkshire plant, with investments reaching up to £2 billion in flexible and renewable energy projects.
The company noted that additional project details are still being finalized, and administrative procedures for the start of construction are under review and preparation.
Ross Mold, Investment Director at AG Bell, said that Drakes is seizing an excellent investment opportunity to keep pace with AI development. He added, “The company has proposed transforming existing infrastructure and grid connections at the Yorkshire plant to support AI growth.”
Mold highlighted that “the coal-powered infrastructure, which was a key driver of the Industrial Revolution, will now be repurposed to operate a data center as part of the next phase of technological development.”
The announcement coincides with Drakes providing an update on its trading, confirming that its projected results are at the top end of market expectations for this year, supported by strong performance.
The company noted that the performance of its flexible production, card production lines, and petroleum-related operations significantly contributed to improved trading results.
Drakes affirmed that its adjusted revenues for the full fiscal year are expected to reach high levels, very close to 2025 market expectations, especially following positive results recorded in the second half of the current year.
CEO Will Gardner stated, “We have a clear vision to meet the future energy needs of the UK, relying on strong financial infrastructure, an effective revenue model, and a prudent approach to capital allocation. We are working to maximize the potential of our existing investment portfolio to achieve ambitious growth in the short, medium, and long term.”
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