
Low costs can make India APAC's data centre hub
In terms of data centre construction cost, India recorded one of the highest increases in the Asia Pacific (APAC) region, rising by 5% in 2024 due to increasing land prices, power infrastructure demand, and high-spec, AI-ready facilities, said the real estate services firm.
Despite this, the country remains a competitive investment destination compared with mature markets like Japan and Australia, it said.
«Cost competitiveness remains a key advantage, with Mumbai emerging as the most cost-efficient data centre hub in the APAC region,” said Vivek Dahiya, head of DC advisory & transaction services for APAC at Cushman & Wakefield. “Mumbai’s power tariff stands at just 6.71 cents per kWh, significantly lower than the APAC average of 11.48 cents, making India’s tariffs 40% more competitive. This cost differential alone can translate into annual savings of approximately USD 12.6 million for a 20MW IT load data centre in comparison to average APAC cost—a compelling factor for operators evaluating expansion in the region.”
Beyond cost, power availability is now a critical differentiator, especially as other APAC markets grapple with supply constraints and extended wait times. India’s major data centre hubs, particularly Mumbai, offer relatively stable industrial power supply, strengthening the country’s investment appeal.
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“As of December 2024, the country’s total renewable energy installed capacity was 209.44 GW, a 15.84% year-on-year increase and accounting for nearly 47% of total installed power