Panel – Beyond Jobs and Tax Revenue: What do communities really want?

Data centre operators are increasingly being asked to demonstrate not only the economic value of their projects, but also their contribution to the communities that host them. Yet community expectations can vary significantly, and initiatives that resonate in one location may have little relevance in another. Success increasingly depends on identifying local needs and aligning investments accordingly. As expectations continue to evolve, how can operators develop community value strategies that deliver measurable outcomes and create lasting value for both communities and developers?

• How can operators identify what communities genuinely value, rather than assuming which benefits will resonate?
• What does a good community benefits programme look like?
• Which community and sustainability investments deliver the greatest long-term value?

For information on how to attend the Social Licence Forum, please email: louise.burrett@techoraco.com