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# What will it take to win the next DC-CFA?
- URL: https://www.techstories.co/what-will-it-take-to-win-the-next-dc-cfa/
- Published: 2024-11-19T16:40:00.000Z
- Updated: 2024-11-30T16:43:00.000Z
- Description: Taking a closer look at recent data centre developments.
- Author: Paul Mah
- Tags: Data Centres

With the next DC-CFA expected, what will it take to land new data centre capacity in Singapore? I look at recent developments and here's what I think.

Building a new data centre in Singapore today is non-trivial. Severely constrained in renewables, Singapore allocates new capacity judiciously, almost jealously.

The process is clear though, with the Data Centre - Call for Application (DC-CFA) being one such route.

**Will there be a DC-CFA 2?**

There's been a long silence since the pilot DC-CFA. But many in the industry expect a new DC-CFA to take place end of this year.

To be clear, I've neither heard anything new, including whether it has been delayed. Assuming it goes ahead, recent developments give us a clue what to expect.

- [Equinix's SG6](https://www.techstories.co/equinix-announces-highly-sustainable-sg6-data-centre/) from the pilot DC-CFA.
- Chat with those who didn't get in.
- Green Mark for Data Centre 2024.

More on these later.

**Highly desirable DC hub**

While the 300MW earmarked for new data centres seems tame compared to Johor or elsewhere, data centres in Singapore remain highly coveted.

- Most MNCs have a presence here.
- Extremely well-connected.
- No risk of oversupply.
- Mature, proven hub.

It is for these reasons that data centre operators remain interested in Singapore.

**What does it take to win?**

So what does it take to secure new data centre capacity? By looking at recent developments, it's possible to piece a picture together.

(a) Green Mark for Data Centres 2024: Facility-level energy efficiency remains crucial.

GMDC 2024 imposes tighter requirements on [PUE measurements](https://www.techstories.co/green-mark-for-data-centres-2024-is-out/): Data must now be captured after the PDU, instead of after the UPS. Moreover, PUE must be measured at 25% IT load.

(b) SG+ strategy: Regional footprint not optional.

Singapore is pushing ahead to develop itself as an advanced digital hub - including Johor and Batam. This was alluded to in the pilot DC-CFA. And yes, all 4 pilot DC-CFA winners have regional footprints.

(c) Ecosystem approach: Raising the bar for the industry.

The sustainable data centre will take more than one operator. Singapore is cognisant and wants to develop a vibrant ecosystem to lift standards for all. Proposals that move the needle here will be a huge differentiator.

**Your turn**

What do you think? Would love to hear your thoughts either in the comments below or a direct message.