Make the capacity definition explicit
Two offers for the same number of MW may describe different things. One can refer to utility service, another to usable IT power and another to future campus potential. Preserve the supplier’s original description. Convert only when the assumptions and design basis are stated.
Check density and commissioning scope
An offer must fit the deployment at rack level as well as site level. Request density limits, cooling architecture, interfaces, resilience arrangements and commissioning responsibilities. A 10 MW requirement at 100 kW per rack is a screening brief, not proof that a particular facility can support it.
Compare alternatives before committing
Use an AI-colocation RFP to separate base rent, electricity pass-through, escalation, fit-out, deposits and service scope. Consider build, lease and cloud against the same workload and deadline. Building an internal research workflow is a separate decision from constructing a data centre.
Take this checklist into the next meeting
- State critical IT MW and the required date.
- Confirm rack density and cooling compatibility.
- Separate recurring rent, power and capital contributions.
- Keep unconfirmed technical fit out of a definitive price ranking.
Evidence and assumptions
This guide develops the supplied buyer-side research framework. It makes no site-specific capacity claim. Obtain current utility documents, manufacturer specifications and appointed professional advice for the actual project. Any numerical examples are worked examples, not project data.