Drax, Brookfield partner on $27 billion AI data centre in UK
BAM•Drax and Brookfield are partnering with AI infrastructure platform Radiant to develop a data centre with more than 1 gigawatt of capacity in northern England. The project could attract more than £20 billion, including £2.5 billion for its first phase, targeted to begin commercial operations in early 2028 subject to approvals and final investment decisions.
1. Large-scale data centre
Drax has partnered with Brookfield and Radiant to develop a data centre at Drax Power Station in northern England. Drax shares rose 9% in early trade after the announcement.
2. Investment and timeline
Brookfield estimates total investment could exceed £20 billion, including £2.5 billion for the first phase. Drax will provide land, power and grid access through the station’s 4-gigawatt connection, while Radiant will contribute AI infrastructure expertise and Brookfield will supply capital through a joint venture with Qai. The first phase is targeted to begin commercial operations in early 2028, subject to planning, regulatory and network approvals and final investment decisions.
3. Analyst view
JPMorgan analysts said the announcement could increase the market value attributed to Drax’s data-centre ambitions and raise expectations that Drax Power Station could operate beyond the expiry of its subsidy scheme in March 2031. They said Brookfield’s involvement should be viewed positively given its credibility as a partner.
