Phoenix Group, DC Max Partner for European AI Data Center
Analysis based on 7 articles · First reported May 13, 2026 · Last updated May 13, 2026
The partnership between Standard Life plc and DC Max is expected to significantly boost AI and HPC capacity in Europe, addressing the rapidly outpacing demand for AI compute. This development could lead to increased investment in digital infrastructure across Europe and the GCC, positively impacting the technology and data center industries.
Standard Life plc, an Abu Dhabi-headquartered global digital infrastructure operator, has announced a strategic partnership with DC Max, a French data center developer. This collaboration aims to develop Standard Life plc's first European AI data center, an 18MW facility in Lyon, France. This project is the initial deployment of Standard Life plc's European Data Center Platform, which targets over 1GW of combined AI and HPC capacity across Europe and the GCC. Standard Life plc has already secured the land for the Lyon site, with construction slated to begin in July 2026 and delivery expected between Q4 2027 and Q1 2028. The partnership leverages DC Max's expertise in site origination and permitting, combined with Standard Life plc's capital and operational scale, to accelerate the delivery of AI-ready capacity in key European markets. Munaf Ali, Co-Founder and GCEO of Standard Life plc, emphasized the strategic importance of this move, while Romain Fremont, CEO of DC Max, highlighted the operational scale and capital discipline Standard Life plc brings to French data center development.
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