Leading the Way in Sustainable Data Center Infrastructure: ODATA

Q: How would you define ODATA's current position in the Mexican and Latin American market, and how has it evolved in recent years?
A: We are leaders in building and operating mission-critical infrastructure for large-scale users, as cloud, AI and machine learning providers, focusing on Latin America. We currently have presence in Mexico, Brazil, Colombia and Chile, in addition to being part of the Align Data Centers group, which operates in the United States and Canada. In Mexico, we have developed significant projects in Queretaro and Guanajuato, consolidating our position as the company with the greatest capacity to meet the region's infrastructure needs.

Our operational flexibility and ability to develop complex infrastructure, such as data centers from 40 to 100MW, have been key to our regional success. This is possible thanks to advanced planning, constant communication with bodies like CFE and the National Environmental Certification Service for Sustainable Investments (SENACE) to guarantee electrical connections, as well as with highly capable local partners.

Q: What distinguishes ODATA from other data center providers in Latin America, and how do you maintain this competitive advantage?
A: Our advantage lies in our experience and expertise in large-scale infrastructure, as well as our ability to operate with high standards of efficiency and flexibility. We have developed unique skills to handle complex electromechanical projects, with local teams and strategic alliances that ensure optimal results.

Q: With growing demand for IT infrastructure, how does ODATA ensure that its solutions are scalable, flexible and aligned with sustainability, digitalization and energy efficiency trends?
A: We ensure the scalability and flexibility of our solutions by anticipating our customers' future needs. When we develop a data center, we do not conceive it as an isolated installation, but as a project with long-term growth capacity. For example, if a client requires 60MW today, we have already initiated the processes to guarantee that in two years' time it will be able to double that capacity.

To keep in line with the demands between digitalization and sustainability, we have highly specialized local teams in each country where we operate. In Mexico, we have a team of close to 100 employees led by a Mexican country manager, which ensures a deep understanding of the particularities of the local energy and construction market.

In terms of energy efficiency, we work with state-of-the-art technology, such as high-efficiency cooling mechanisms and liquid cooling systems, which meet current AI requirements. We also integrate renewable energies into our operations; in Brazil, for example, we participate in wind farm projects to guarantee the supply of clean energy.

Q: What are ODATA's availability and redundancy guarantees to ensure the operational continuity of customers' businesses?
A: We have a very robust design that provides the highest levels of availability.We can offer dual power supplies, internal backup generators with additional redundancy, and cooling systems designed to overcome potential failures, always adapting to each customer's specific requirements.

In addition, we have built a solid reputation in Latin America, with almost 10 years of uninterrupted operation, reflecting our ability to deploy and maintain mission-critical infrastructure. This achievement is supported by measures such as 24/7 maintenance, internal audits, process certifications, and a highly specialized team, ensuring not only operational continuity, but also cultivating customer confidence in our ability to deliver reliable and scalable solutions in the region.

Q: How does ODATA manage both physical and cyber security to protect its clients' sensitive data assets?
A: We boost security through robust systems that strictly control access to facilities, including advanced perimeter measures and customized protocols where clients directly authorize who can enter their computer rooms. In addition, our infrastructures are designed with isolated areas, avoiding the need to share operating spaces. Although we do not intervene in clients' information or communication channels, our technology ensures a reliable environment that protects their assets in any market where we operate.

Q: How do you see the evolution of government regulations and initiatives in Mexico and Latin America related to the data center industry, and what impact will they have on growth by 2025?
A: The data center industry is booming. Amid an unprecedented level of investment, government regulations and initiatives play a crucial role in the evolution of the sector. Countries, particularly in Latin America, are increasingly focused on facilitating the entry of data center investments, recognizing their importance as key infrastructure for economic development.

In terms of regulations, Mexico has great potential to position itself as a leader in this industry, but it is necessary to advance in aspects such as the availability of clean energy. Although there are advances, such as those of Chile with its AI regulation and Brazil with its tax flexibilization, Mexico must focus on strengthening its energy capacity to accompany the growth of this infrastructure. Collaboration between the private sector and the government will be essential to ensure a favorable environment for the development of data centers, which will drive their expansion and allow sustained growth towards 2025.

Q: What can we expect from new initiatives, like your data center in Queretaro, in terms of ODATA's operational capabilities and market position?
A: Our main area of technology investment is focused on energy efficiency, particularly in the use of advanced cooling technologies, such as liquid cooling. This is essential to keep costs under control and ensure sustainability in handling large computing capacities. 

Q: How do you see the evolution of the data center industry in Mexico and Latin America in the years ahead?
A: Five years after starting our operation in Mexico, I am confident that the country will become a powerhouse in the data center market, complementing the North American market. Growth depends on a joint effort between industry and government to make Mexico an accessible hub for US companies. The key will be to continue to develop the sector's capabilities and facilitate access so that customers can take advantage of the strategic advantages the region offers.