In just a few years, the technological landscape has changed dramatically: Digital applications and the processing and analysis of data have rapidly advanced to become central operational interfaces of the economy and society.

• Whether social media, online transactions, sensor data or other digital information - public life generates and functions using huge amounts of data.
• Companies are increasingly using cloud services for their IT applications (cloud computing).
• Innovative technologies such as artificial intelligence and machine learning are developing rapidly.
• The Internet of Things (IoT) is shaping complex technology worlds.

The pivotal point of all these developments are powerful and efficient data centres, for which demand is growing in Germany, Europe and worldwide. Companies in particular are highly dependent on the functioning of data-based applications and digital infrastructures. Sufficient storage capacities and therefore a corresponding number of secure and high-performance data centres are indispensable for the maintenance, further development and digitalization of business models and work processes.

Data centres: a lucrative and complex asset class

In the context of web conferencing, applications for operational processes in human resources, accounting or financial planning, customer services, the operation of ERP platforms or the use of special applications based on new technologies, data centres, with their decisive role for IT infrastructure and services, are now a central strategic factor for business development in almost every company. For investors data centres constitute an asset class with a variety of economic and legal challenges.

We are one of the leading legal advisors in this asset class. Our lawyers from all relevant legal fields have considerable expertise in all matters relating to data centres and can assist in the planning, financing and realization of and investment in data centres, particularly in Germany, the United Kingdom and throughout Europe. We have extensive experience in all core markets (eg FLAP markets: Frankfurt, London, Amsterdam and Paris).

Legal and commercial advice for data centre projects

Our experts work with developers, investors, operators, suppliers and end users. They are familiar with the industry and its special features including the importance of sustainability and renewable energies (Green IT). They are also experienced in the aspects of IT and data security with the special need for protection of data centres and the resulting challenges from real estate, construction, environmental and planning law. They are equally familiar with energy and waste heat supply issues, technologies and the associated regulatory challenges, as well as the far-reaching commercial aspects.

Comprehensive advice on buying or selling, financing or new construction

Our multidisciplinary team advises owners, developers, operators, IT service providers and end-users on the entire lifecycle of data centre projects through to end-use and operation, including IT infrastructure. Our lawyers work together with clients to assess investment risks and opportunities from a legal perspective and to find appropriate and practical solutions to make even the most challenging data centre projects a success.