DataVita shifts Lanarkshire AI datacentre plans to full grid supply
Original report:
DataVita revised its proposed Chapelhall AI development from directly connected renewable generation to full National Grid supply, the Guardian reported in November 2026. The company said its renewable-energy commitment remained intact and promised a renewable power purchase agreement.
DataVita’s proposed AI datacentre expansion at Chapelhall, near Airdrie, was redesigned to draw all its electricity from the National Grid, the Guardian reported on 7 November 2026. Earlier plans promised more than 1GW of renewable capacity, including wind, solar and battery storage, connected directly to the datacentres through private wires.
The company denied misrepresenting its intentions and said grid electricity would be supplied through a renewable power purchase agreement. Direct connections to a proposed North Lanarkshire wind and solar park remained a future possibility. The Guardian reported that the planned 500MW development was associated with an anticipated 3,400 jobs and £202m in national wealth fund guarantees.
The Lanarkshire proposal formed part of Britain’s AI growth-zone strategy, which offered developers potential energy discounts and faster planning approvals. The Guardian described high British electricity costs and years-long grid connection waits as obstacles to such developments. The revised supply plan highlights the distinction between direct renewable connections and purchasing renewable electricity through the grid.
Source
the Guardian — 7 November 2026
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