New Delhi, Oct. 22 -- Data centres supporting artificial intelligence (AI) could reduce their electricity connection waiting time from 5-10 years or more to 2-4 years by accepting flexible grid connections and using their own power generation and storage systems, according to a report by Boston Consulting Group (BCG).

"Flexible access can reduce time to power from 5-10+ years to 2-4 years by lowering the need for (major) grid reinforcement," the report said.

The report noted that this approach could help data centres become operational earlier while reducing pressure on electricity grids and limiting additional costs for other power consumers. The analysis focuses on five Northwest European markets - the UK, Germany, France, Belgium and...