In a groundbreaking development, Mukesh Ambani‘s Reliance Industries has announced a massive investment of 10 billion rupees ($122 million) in India’s burgeoning data center industry.
The investment will be carried out through a strategic joint venture called “Digital Connexion,” which will see collaboration with two leading foreign companies, Canada-based Brookfield Infrastructure, and US-based Digital Realty Trust.
This milestone move marks an important step towards bolstering India’s digital infrastructure and supporting its rapidly growing digital economy.
The Rise of Digital Connexion:
Reliance Industries’ investment will be channeled into the establishment of two cutting-edge data centers. The first project involves the construction of a 20-megawatt (MW) data center atop an existing 100-MW facility in Chennai, while the second data center, boasting an impressive 40-MW capacity, will be situated in Mumbai.
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With the Chennai center expected to be operational by year-end, Digital Connexion is wasting no time in solidifying its presence in India’s data center landscape. The recent acquisition of 2.15 acres in Mumbai further demonstrates their commitment to meeting the nation’s growing digital demands.
The Power of Strategic Alliances:
To fuel the growth and success of Digital Connexion, Reliance Industries has teamed up with industry giants Brookfield Infrastructure and Digital Realty Trust, with each foreign company holding an equal 33.3% stake in the project. Furthermore, Jio Platforms Ltd., a telecommunications unit under Reliance’s umbrella, will also possess an equal share in the special purpose vehicles established for these data centers.
This strategic alliance ensures a comprehensive approach to driving innovation and maximizing the potential of India’s data center market.
Unleashing India’s Digital Potential:
Serene Nah, the managing director and head of Asia-Pacific for Digital Realty, expressed confidence in the project, emphasizing that India represents an untapped market for data centers.
The rapid adoption of digital business models, a colossal population, and a technology-forward government combine to create an environment ripe for technological advancement and economic development.
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The data centers’ strategic location in Chennai and Mumbai will enable them to capitalize on the surge in digital services, including streaming and gaming, amid the ongoing 5G rollout in India. Jio’s extensive 4G and 5G connectivity that covers 99.5% of the Indian population further enhances the project’s prospects.
Fueling India’s Data Center Industry Growth:
The timing of Reliance Industries’ investment couldn’t be more opportune. A report by renowned property firm JLL highlights that India’s data center industry is poised to drive an impressive demand for 9.1 million square feet of real estate, necessitating an investment of $4.8 billion over the next three years until 2025. Notably, India achieved a remarkable 31% increase in data center capacity during the second half of the previous year, adding 71.8 MW to its overall capacity. This upward trajectory signals immense potential for Digital Connexion’s growth and success.
Mukesh Ambani: A Driving Force:
Mukesh Ambani, the visionary billionaire and chairman of Reliance Industries, is a key driving force behind this strategic investment. Ranked second on India’s 100 Richest list by Forbes Asia, with a net worth of $88 billion, Ambani’s entrepreneurial acumen and visionary leadership continue to propel Reliance Industries to new heights.
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With the conglomerate reporting an impressive $118.8 billion in revenue for the fiscal year ending March 2023, Ambani’s commitment to technological innovation and digital advancement is evident across the company’s diverse operations, ranging from petroleum refining to retail and digital services.
Reliance Industries’ substantial investment in the Indian data center industry through the Digital Connexion joint venture is a resounding testament to India’s growing potential as a global digital powerhouse.
With strategic partnerships, cutting-edge infrastructure, and visionary leadership, the venture is well-positioned to unlock India’s digital future and play a pivotal role in the country’s economic development. As the project takes shape, eyes are set on the digital horizon, anticipating transformative impacts for India’s digital landscape.
