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Global Data Center Demand Outpaces Available Supply
Global data center demand from artificial intelligence (AI) uses is outpacing available space capacity, pushing vacancy rates toward historic lows despite a wave of new supply, according to CBRE’s latest Global Data Center Trends report.
Global supply reached 16 gigawatts (GW) in Q1 2026 across the 16 largest data center markets, up 25% year-over-year. However, even with supply growth in all major regions, average vacancy fell to 6.7% from 8.3% a year earlier, indicating tightening market conditions worldwide.
“Across the globe, demand is outpacing even aggressive new supply increases, which means companies can no longer assume capacity will be available when they need it,” said Pat Lynch, executive managing director, CBRE Data Center Solutions. “Occupiers are having to secure space earlier, take what’s available from a capacity standpoint and prioritize markets with dependable power to support long-term growth.”
In the top four U.S. data center markets, 80% of the space under construction at year-end 2025 was preleased, CBRE reported.
- ◦Lease
- ◦Development
