EXA Infrastructure (formerly Interoute), Hoddesdon Data Centre, Hertfordshire

Colo-X analysis

Originally launched by Vtesse in 2009, this is a 20,000 sq ft net tech, 2MW data centre with about 14 dedicated suites or some 400 racks of capacity located just to the north of the M25, London’s orbital motorway. Some shared suite rack colocation available but also larger spaces can be provisioned. Quite high occupancy by 2019, around 75% of the existing fitted-out space, with scope to build-out more should the need arise.

Vtesse was acquired by Interoute in October 2014 who in turn were acquired by GTT in February 2018 for USD$2.3bn. In Sept 2021 GTT sold all their network assets (including data centres) to I Squared Capital for USD$2bn who launched the new business as EXA Infrastructure.  EXA offer 3 London data centre assets, two of which they own and operate (combined 3MW in total, so both quite small) and a suite in the Global Switch London East building.

Standard power per rack inHoddesdon is offered at 5kW, but 32Amps and 7.2kW is easily achievable.

EXA Infrastructure facility description

Vtesse acquired this former IBM DR facility and performed a modular fit out of the internal space. Halls range from 2,500 sq ft up to 15,000 sq ft. Each data hall can be configured to different specifications, such as Tier 2 or Tier 3 standards, as per individual client requirements. The facility is a single-story warehouse building and still offers further room for additional data centre capacity should the need arise, but perhaps other more modern facilities nearby might offer lower PUE’s.

On-site security and remote hands services are available 24/7. Office accommodation for up to 100 staff is available. Connectivity at present is primarily from EXA/GTT/Vtesse/Interoute Networks, but offers diverse routes back to Docklands. There is a carrier-neutral philosophy, however.

GTT made 11 acquisitions including Interoute for $2.3bn in Feb 2018 and Hibernia Networks for $590m in Nov 2016.

In Sept 2021 GTT Communications sold the infrastructure of their network for $2bn to I Squared Capita, an infrastructure investment management firm, who used these to launch a new company called EXA Infrastructure. As of 2023 EXA offer 3 London data centres, with the other two located to south of London in Bracknell, a small 1MW site and also a private suite in Global Switch’s London East site (or GS2) in Docklands.

Technical stats