At DCR Live 2026, we caught up with Phil Smith from Airsys to discuss how power availability, AI and changing cooling requirements are shaping the next generation of UK data centres.

During the conversation, Phil highlighted the need for operators to be realistic about what AI will mean for their power strategies, whether they plan to secure additional capacity or repurpose what is already available. He also explored how grid constraints could influence future investment decisions, including where new facilities are built.

Phil also discussed the industry’s environmental impact and the importance of communicating more clearly with the public about how UK data centres are cooled and the digital services they enable. Looking ahead, he argued that the industry’s leaders will be those able to adapt across liquid cooling, traditional air cooling and legacy infrastructure as requirements continue to evolve.

You can watch the full interview with Phil on our YouTube channel, or by clicking on the video above.