Powering progress in the UK's digital future
The 12 September 2025 marks the very first National Data Centre Day. This is a new awareness day dedicated to recognising the essential role data centres play in powering the UK's digital economy, supporting artificial intelligence, and keeping us socially connected.
Why the 12 September?
This date marks one year since data centres were officially recognised as Critical National Infrastructure (CNI) by the UK Government which places them alongside water, energy, and transport as vital services that keep the country running.
Why data centres matter
Every time we send a text, share a photo on social media, stream a film, or make an online payment, a data centre makes it possible. These facilities are the backbone of our modern life and enable:
- AI and cloud computing: Powering everything from smart assistants to advanced machine learning models.
- Essential services: Supporting healthcare, finance, education, and communications.
- Innovation and growth: Driving the UK's ambitions in digital transformation and the wider tech economy.
And yet, despite this being so vital, data centres often remain invisible to the public.
That's why National Data Centre Day is so important. It shines a spotlight on this industry, the people behind it, and the innovations shaping a more connected, sustainable, and digital future.
Why support National Data Centre Day?
Supporting National Data Centre Day is about recognising how digital infrastructure underpins everything we do. By shining a light on the industry, we can:
- Improve public understanding of the role data centres play.
- Attract the next generation of talent into STEM and IT careers.
- Highlight the sustainability progress, from energy efficiency to renewable power.
What our team has to say
Alan Troke, Associate Director, Data Centres: "Data centres are the unsung heroes of our digital lives, powering AI, cloud services, and essential systems across the UK. Recognising them as Critical National Infrastructure highlights their importance, while celebrating National Data Centre Day allows us to spotlight the innovation, sustainability, and people driving this vital sector forward. At Cundall, we're proud to support this initiative and apply our engineering and sustainability expertise to help shape the future of resilient, low-carbon digital innovation."
Barbara Smitten, Associate Director, Data Centres: "Data centres underpin everything about our modern life, supporting economic growth as well as the advancement of education, healthcare, artificial intelligence, and many more. Marking the 12 September as National Data Centre Day is an opportunity to recognise and celebrate the people who work to design, build, and operate these facilities 24/7. We at Cundall are proud to support this initiative and champion the sector through our shared commitment to sustainability, engineering excellence, and supporting the next generation of engineers."
