The Asian Development Bank (ADB) has joined forces with the Bangladesh government to establish the country’s first green data center. The initiative, part of Bangladesh’s digital transformation, aims to integrate renewable energy with cutting-edge technology to boost the nation’s infotech sector.
Key Details of the Green Data Center Project
Location and Stakeholders
The green data center will be situated on a Bangladesh Telecommunications Company Limited (BTCL)-owned site near Chattogram. It will be operated as a public-private partnership (PPP), involving key government organizations: the Posts and Telecommunications Division, BTCL, and the Public-Private Partnership Authority. These entities have already signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to kick-start the project.
Renewable Energy and Colocation Services
A standout feature of the project is its reliance on renewable energy sources. The facility will not only meet BTCL’s internal data storage requirements but also offer colocation services to both public and private enterprises. The move aligns with Bangladesh’s goal to expand its digital infrastructure while adhering to sustainable practices.
A Significant Milestone for Bangladesh’s Digital Vision
Hoe Yun Jeong, the ADB’s country director for Bangladesh, highlighted the project as a key step towards realizing the nation’s digital vision. He emphasized that this green data center will contribute to Bangladesh’s digital transformation while promoting private investment in the country’s growing information technology sector. The project will also encourage capital mobilization for digital technology initiatives.
What Does This Mean for Bangladesh’s Data Center Market?
Bangladesh’s colocation market has historically been small, but it is evolving. Local players such as Felicity IDC and Red.Digital have a presence, and the country’s government has already set a precedent by operating an Uptime Tier IV-certified facility in Dhaka. Last year, all government-run data centers were equipped with Oracle Cloud Infrastructure, enhancing their operational efficiency.
In February 2024, Bangladesh’s first cloud data center, Meghna Cloud, was inaugurated in the Bangabandhu Hi-Tech City. This joint venture between Bangladesh Data Center Company Limited (BDCCL) and Gennext Technologies signals the nation’s commitment to boosting its data center capabilities. Additionally, international firms like Saudi Arabia’s DataVolt and India’s Yotta have announced plans to expand their presence in Bangladesh.
Future Plans and Upcoming Developments
In the near future, a transaction advisory services agreement will be signed to further solidify the details of the partnership. Once operational, the green data center will not only bolster the nation’s technological infrastructure but also position Bangladesh as a growing hub for digital services in South Asia.
FAQ Section
1. What is the purpose of the green data center in Bangladesh?
The green data center will focus on sustainability by utilizing renewable energy. It will provide colocation services to public and private enterprises, helping to enhance Bangladesh’s digital transformation while adhering to environmentally-friendly practices.
2. Who are the key stakeholders in the green data center project?
The project is a collaboration between the Asian Development Bank (ADB), the Bangladesh government, and Bangladesh Telecommunications Company Limited (BTCL). It will be operated under a public-private partnership.
3. How will the green data center impact Bangladesh’s digital infrastructure?
This project will significantly improve the nation’s digital infrastructure by offering advanced data storage solutions and encouraging private investment in the information technology sector. It also promotes sustainable growth aligned with Bangladesh’s digital goals.
4. What other data centers are operational in Bangladesh?
Bangladesh currently has an Uptime Tier IV-certified data center in Dhaka, along with Meghna Cloud, which began operations in February 2024. Local players like Felicity IDC and Red.Digital are also present in the market.
5. How does this project contribute to Bangladesh’s digital transformation?
The green data center aligns with Bangladesh’s digital vision by integrating renewable energy, promoting sustainability, and expanding the country’s data storage capabilities. This, in turn, supports the country’s overall economic and technological development.
