As AI-driven computing and the digital economy reshape the global technology landscape, Singapore once again took center stage in the data center industry. The 12th edition of Data Centre World Asia (DCWA) was held in Singapore on September 29–30, 2026.
CIMC Digital Power showcased its full prefabricated modular data center solutions, centered on a clear proposition: Delivering data centers at the pace of AI growth. The booth drew strong interest from customers and industry partners, sparking conversations about the future of data center infrastructure. From the fundamental shift in how computing capacity is delivered to fully integrated, campus-scale solutions, the discussions remained lively throughout the event.
One question came up repeatedly during the exhibition: As demand for computing capacity accelerates, how can data centers be delivered fast enough? Two priorities consistently emerged: speed and predictability.
Surging demand for computing capacity
Global data center capacity is projected to grow from approximately 70 GW in 2020 to around 120 GW by 2030, with AI training and inference accounting for an increasing share of demand. AI racks can draw 40–100 kW per rack—roughly ten times the power density of traditional server racks.
Rising capital investment, persistent supply constraints
Hyperscaler capital expenditure is projected to reach approximately US$1 trillion over 2024–2026. Yet construction timelines have not shortened at the same pace, widening the gap between infrastructure supply and demand.
Speed is becoming a decisive competitive advantage
Traditional construction methods are reaching their limits. Prefabrication is gaining traction across the data center value chain, as the industry shifts toward more industrialized approaches to delivery.
The benefits of prefabricated modular construction are increasingly evident: approximately 85% less on-site installation labor, around 90% less construction waste, and potential total cost of ownership (TCO) savings of approximately 30%. Shorter construction schedules and lower costs per megawatt matter, but the real advantage goes beyond cost: time to deployment is becoming a critical differentiator.
Prefabricated modular solutions are expected to gain significant market share between 2026 and 2028, accelerating the industry's transition from bespoke construction to standardized, scalable assembly.
The full prefabricated modular data center model at CIMC Digital Power's booth attracted considerable attention. Engineers and business representatives walked visitors through the principles behind the solution.
Five principles of industrialization
CIMC Digital Power's approach is built on five fundamental shifts: from engineering projects to products, from customization to standardization, from one-off builds to mass production, from fixed configurations to flexible deployment, and from on-site construction to factory-based manufacturing.
DFMA-driven design and engineering
Design for Manufacturing and Assembly (DFMA) is supported by BIM, 3D design using SolidWorks, and CAE simulation. Together, these capabilities focus on delivering four key outcomes: consistent product quality, repeatable delivery timelines, predictable costs, and sustainable competitiveness.
Three core functional modules
IT modules, power distribution modules, and chiller plant modules form the foundation of the solution. Standardized module boundaries and interfaces enable seamless integration, more predictable project schedules, and flexible capacity expansion.
Visitors were particularly interested in how modular solutions could be tailored to their own projects—from rack power density and the balance between liquid and air cooling to power architecture and operational requirements.
With 13 years of industry experience, CIMC Digital Power has built a substantial track record: more than 1,000 MW of installed capacity, 17,000 modules delivered, 540,000 m² of construction area, and 52,000 racks delivered. Its projects span China and international markets, with permanent facilities designed to meet applicable local codes and acceptance requirements.
This proven delivery experience is a key reason customers place their trust in CIMC Digital Power.
During the exhibition, CIMC Digital Power was invited to deliver a keynote presentation titled “Prefabricated Modular Solutions: A New Paradigm for AIDC Development.” The presentation shared the company's practical experience and insights into the evolving role of prefabricated modular construction in the AI data center (AIDC) era.
Starting with emerging trends in AI computing, the presentation explored how engineering productization, product standardization, scalable manufacturing, and flexible configuration can establish a repeatable delivery model for large-scale AIDC deployment.
CIMC Digital Power is already working closely with leading global customers and partners. The company believes that prefabricated modular construction is more than an alternative building method—it is a more forward-looking approach to data center development, bringing greater predictability to project delivery and supporting the industry's long-term growth.
While DCWA 2026 has come to a close, the industry's exploration of AI, computing infrastructure, and new approaches to data center development continues.
As CIMC Group's strategic platform for digital energy, CIMC Digital Power remains committed to innovation and advancing prefabricated modular data center solutions. By leveraging its integrated capabilities in R&D, intelligent manufacturing, engineering integration, and global delivery, the company will continue to enhance its products and services to meet the evolving needs of customers worldwide.
Looking ahead, CIMC Digital Power looks forward to working alongside customers, partners, and industry peers worldwide to advance data center delivery and contribute to the sustainable growth of the digital economy.
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