Navigating the Latin American Data Center: A Closer Look at Santiago, Chile

Welcome back to another episode of our Latin American Podcasts where we explore the intricacies of data center real estate and investments. Steve Sasse and Daniel Correia discuss Santiago, Chile—a major player in Latin America's data center market.

Santiago’s Growing Data Center Market

Santiago is Latin America's second-largest data center hub, with a staggering 300MW of conditioned power across colocation and self-built facilities. The city has an additional 50MW under construction and 200MW in the pipeline, solidifying its role as a regional leader. Chile’s robust communications infrastructure, stable regulatory environment, and abundant renewable energy sources make it an attractive destination for major industry players like Google, Amazon, and Microsoft. These companies are expanding rapidly in the region, drawn by strong fiber connectivity and favorable business policies.

Opportunities and Challenges for Investor

While Santiago offers numerous advantages, potential investors should be prepared for challenges, particularly with permit acquisition, which can take up to two years. Land and energy costs in Santiago are higher compared to Sao Paulo but remain competitive within the region. On the upside, Chile’s transition from coal to renewable energy sources like hydropower, wind, and solar is a significant factor for sustainability-focused investors. Additionally, the announcement of a new submarine cable system linking Santiago with Australia is set to enhance latency between Latin America and the Asia Pacific, further boosting the city’s appeal.

Future Outlook for Santiago

Efforts to improve inter-regional connectivity, such as fiber connections linking Santiago to Buenos Aires and Sao Paulo, will further strengthen its position as a digital hub. Despite geographical challenges posed by the Andes and Amazon jungle, Santiago continues to thrive as a critical player in Latin America’s digital economy. We predict sustained growth over the next 3 to 5 years, driven by hyperscale interest and the regional expansion of cloud and AI services. Stay tuned for our next episode, where we’ll take a closer look at Mexico’s data center market!