Data centers are a promising investment area in Sverdlovsk Region

Acting Deputy Governor and Minister of Investment and Development of the region, Dmitry Ionin, noted that Russian President Vladimir Putin has instructed the development of data centers, and Sverdlovsk Region is ready to fulfill this task — the region has an energy surplus and is home to many high-tech companies in need of such infrastructure.

"Data centers are already becoming as basic an infrastructure for investors as roads or utility networks. Ten private data centers are already operating in our region, but this is insufficient for tackling modern tasks involving artificial intelligence and big data technologies. Two large centers are already under construction — in Berezovsky and Yekaterinburg. Our task is to synchronize the efforts of business, energy companies, and authorities and create conditions for accelerated industry development. Governor Denis Pasler has set this task for us," said Dmitry Ionin.

According to the acting deputy governor, the first phase of the data center in Berezovsky is designed for 450 racks and will be commissioned in April. Agreements with investors have been signed for several other projects. For its part, the state is ready to offer investors various support measures, such as tax or tariff benefits, and assistance with technical grid connection.

Acting Minister of Digital Development and Communications of Sverdlovsk Region, Alexey Saburov, confirmed the state's interest in creating a data center cluster. Sverdlovsk Region possesses all the necessary conditions for its establishment — a reliable energy system, advantageous logistical and geographical positioning, and strong industrial and human resource potential.

Co-chair of the SOSPP Commission on Infrastructure Development and Public-Private Partnership, Oleg Mokhkaryov, emphasized that the data center market is demonstrating steady growth.

"The creation of digital infrastructure facilities is now not just an important topic dictated by current technological trends but a necessity itself. This market is developing exponentially. Drawing on the example of existing facilities and colleagues' experience, it is now crucial to identify which constraints need to be 'unblocked' to propel this topic forward in the region. The target model is the creation of an investment map focused on data centers, where all opportunities are clearly presented to the investor — from electricity costs at specific connection points to the potential of territories with special regimes, such as Advanced Development Territories and industrial parks," noted Oleg Mokhkaryov.

The discussion also included representatives from PJSC "Rossety Ural", PJSC "Rostelecom", the Investment Promotion Agency, and relevant industry organizations.

Denis Tarasov, Director of the Yekaterinburg Branch of RTK-DC, shared the company's experience in constructing and operating data centers, highlighting key industry trends: tightening security requirements, increasing capacity for AI solutions, and using gas generators to improve energy efficiency.

"The RTK-DC network includes 26 data centers with a total capacity of 265 MW, covering key cities, including Yekaterinburg. One of the significant projects is the third phase of the data center in the Ural capital, which accommodates 216 racks and is in its final stage," he said.

The meeting's outcomes will form the basis for preparing proposals on the further development of the data center cluster and improving investor support measures. It is noted that the development of digital infrastructure, including data centers, aligns with the objectives of the national project "Data Economy".

Photo: Boris Yarkov / "Oblastnaya Gazeta"