Carbon3.ai pumps £1B into UK's sovereign AI data centre network by 2026

Carbon3.ai has announced major expansion plans for its UK-based AI infrastructure network. The company is investing £1 billion to build a series of sustainable data centres, with the first 5MW site set to open in the East Midlands by March 2026. Recent high-profile appointments, including a former PwC executive and a senior naval officer, signal its ambition to strengthen Britain’s AI capabilities under full UK jurisdiction. Carbon3.ai has completed a proof-of-concept phase and is now moving forward with its first operational site. The 5MW facility in the East Midlands will repurpose legacy industrial and energy infrastructure into a secure, renewable-powered AI hub. Planning permission has also been submitted for a second data centre in Derbyshire.

The company’s leadership team has grown with key appointments. Richard Collier-Keywood, previously vice chair of PwC’s global board, has joined as an advisor. Sir George Zambellas, the former head of the Royal Navy, brings expertise in national resilience and infrastructure security. Sana Khareghani, who led the UK Government Office for Artificial Intelligence, now serves as chief strategy officer. Carbon3.ai’s goal is to create a sovereign, AI-ready infrastructure network across the UK. All data processing and facilities will remain within British borders, ensuring compliance with UK regulations. The initiative aligns with the government’s target of achieving 6GW of sovereign AI capacity by 2030.

The £1 billion investment will fund a nationwide network of fully sustainable data centres. These hubs are designed to support innovation, research, and enterprise while maintaining strict regulatory oversight. With construction underway and senior leadership in place, Carbon3.ai is positioning itself as a key player in the UK’s AI infrastructure future.