Chakan, Pune, January 9, 2024 – Vertiv (NYSE: VRT), a global leader in critical digital infrastructure and continuity solutions, marked a significant advancement in India’s data center sector with the inauguration of a new manufacturing facility in Chakan, Pune, on January 9, 2024. This strategic move not only reinforces Vertiv’s commitment to the burgeoning Indian market but also aligns with the country’s ‘Make in India’ initiative.
A Glimpse into Vertiv’s Legacy
Vertiv, headquartered in Westerville, Ohio, USA, operates in over 130 countries, specializing in hardware, software, and services that ensure continuity for vital applications. With existing facilities in Ambernath and Pune, Vertiv’s establishment of its third manufacturing hub in India signifies a deepening footprint in the region.
The New Manufacturing Marvel in Pune
Spanning 210,000 square feet, the Chakan facility is a testament to modern manufacturing. It focuses on producing thermal management products essential for data centers, telecommunications, and industrial applications. These range from adiabatic free cooling chillers to large custom air handling units, addressing both domestic and international demands.
Innovation is at the heart of this facility, featuring state-of-the-art psychometric labs for performance testing and a customer experience center. Furthermore, its compliance with the India Green Building Council (IGBC) standards highlights Vertiv’s commitment to sustainability.
The Data Center Industry: A Global Digitalization Catalyst
Commenting on this strategic move, Vertiv’s CEO, Giordano Albertazzi, emphasized the need for supporting the escalating digitalization trend, stating, “The data center industry’s exponential growth, fueled by global digitalization and the swift integration of Artificial Intelligence (AI), necessitates an amplified focus on enhancing data center thermal and power infrastructure. India’s emergence as a data center hub in the APAC region underscores the rationale behind establishing our third manufacturing facility in India, reaffirming our commitment to nurturing the country’s data center ecosystem while catering to global demand.”
Economic and Social Reverberations
The facility is more than a manufacturing hub; it’s a beacon of economic progress. The plant is expected to generate significant employment opportunities, contributing to the local economy. Additionally, it’s a robust endorsement of the Indian government’s ‘Make in India’ initiative, aiming to transform India into a global manufacturing powerhouse.
The Road Ahead for India’s Data Center Market
India’s data center market is on an upward trajectory, as highlighted in a JLL report. With an expected expansion of 678 MW in the next three years, elevating its capacity to 1400 MW by 2025, India is rapidly establishing itself as a significant player in the global data center landscape.
Vertiv’s Vision for India and Beyond
Subhasis Majumdar, Managing Director of Vertiv India, emphasized the plant’s role in enhancing their capability to deliver tailored and complex solutions. This facility not only caters to current demands but is also poised to adapt to future technological advancements and environmental needs.
SMEVenture’s Exclusive Experience at Vertiv’s Event in Pune:
The SMEVenture team had the privilege of attending an exclusive event at Vertiv’s state-of-the-art manufacturing facility in Chakan. The day’s agenda unfolded with a compelling presentation by Mr. Giordano Albertazzi, CEO of Vertiv, providing valuable insights into the company’s vision and strategies. This was followed by an engaging question and answer session with the press, allowing for an interactive dialogue on various aspects of Vertiv’s operations and market influence.
After the press conference, our team was invited for a guided tour of the manufacturing plant. This tour was not just a walk-through but an immersive experience into the heart of Vertiv’s operations. We gained firsthand knowledge of their innovative approaches and the intricate workings of their facility. This visit offered us a comprehensive understanding of Vertiv’s commitment to excellence and its role in shaping the future of digital infrastructure in India.
In Conclusion: A Step Towards a Digitalized Future
The new Vertiv facility in Pune is more than just a manufacturing hub; it’s a cornerstone in the digital infrastructure of India and the wider APAC region. It embodies the synergy between technological advancement and sustainable practices, setting a precedent for future developments in the data center industry.
This expansion by Vertiv is a clear indication of the growing importance of India in the global data center market, propelled by rapid digitalization and a supportive governmental framework. It’s a story of technological advancement, economic growth, and a commitment to a sustainable future.
Written by Prasad P. Patkar