Understanding Powered Shell Data Centers

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In the data center industry, staying current on evolving development models is critical—and Powered Shells are gaining significant attention. We sat down with industry experts David Liggitt and Mike Netzer to discuss the rise of Powered Shell data centers and how they help meet growing demand for efficient, adaptable infrastructure. This overview covers the history of Powered Shells, what they include (and don’t), and why the model is attractive in today’s market.

What is a Powered Shell?
A Powered Shell is a purpose-built, secure data center facility that includes the building, site power, and connectivity options (such as proximity to fiber providers), but excludes key IT infrastructure like UPS systems, generators, and cooling—so end-users can install their own components. This differs from Turnkey Data Centers, which include all required IT equipment for immediate operation. Powered Shell leases are typically priced by square footage rather than per kilowatt (kW).

Why are Powered Shells gaining popularity now?

Hyperscale investment: Amazon ($100B), Microsoft ($80B), Google ($75B), and Meta ($60–80B) are making massive investments in data center infrastructure, increasing demand for scalable approaches like Powered Shell development.
Speed to market: Powered Shells can help bring capacity online faster by allowing end-users to install critical infrastructure and operations on their own timeline.
Flexibility and customization: End-users can choose and manage their own IT, power, and cooling (including liquid cooling or custom design requirements).
Capital allocation efficiency: Powered Shells reduce upfront capital demands versus building a full Turnkey facility while still providing a secure, scalable solution.

What does a Powered Shell include?
Included: physical building (often designed with hardened shells for security), power infrastructure to the site, and proximity to fiber providers for connectivity.
Excluded: UPS systems, generators, cooling systems, and other advanced IT infrastructure. End-users equip and operate the facility to match their requirements.

Geographic trends and market adoption
Powered Shell developments have historically been concentrated in Northern Virginia, which accounts for about 100 of the 130 Powered Shell deals tracked globally. The model is gaining traction in other regions due to constraints around land availability, power, and evolving end-user needs. Internationally, Europe is worth watching; for example, a recent €200B investment in France for AI and data center infrastructure highlights growing demand beyond the U.S.

Looking ahead
As deals grow in size—often exceeding hundreds of megawatts—hybrid models combining Powered Shell and Turnkey facilities are becoming more common. These arrangements help developers balance capital allocation while meeting diverse client needs. Powered Shells can also be an entry point for industrial developers entering the data center market by leveraging large-scale site-building expertise.

Final thoughts
Powered Shell data centers offer operational flexibility, scalability, and efficient capital deployment for hyperscale companies, developers, and operators. Want to stay ahead of the curve? Reach out to our team to explore market trends, gain deeper insights, and make informed decisions in the data center space.