As data centre projects scale, bank credit to the sector on a rise

Core Insights - India's data centre capacity is projected to increase five-fold by 2030, leading to a rise in lending to the sector, which is now a significant part of the infrastructure credit pipeline for banks [1][2]. Lending Trends - Banks are witnessing an increase in loan proposals for sectors including data centres, warehousing, and solar PV modules, with a notable corporate credit pipeline of ₹60,000 crore driven by data centre operators and power transmission companies [2]. - The State Bank of India disbursed ₹1,357 crore in long-term secured debt to Yotta Data Services, while Adani Connex secured loans of up to $1.44 billion from various banks, highlighting the growing need for debt due to high capital expenditure costs [3]. Financial Metrics - Sify Infinit Spaces reported borrowings of ₹2,097 crore as of March 2025, up from ₹1,708 crore, while Bharti Airtel's data centre arm Nxtra saw its borrowings nearly double to ₹1,243 crore [4]. - The typical funding structure for data centre projects consists of 60-70% debt and 30-40% promoter equity, with major capital expenditures triggered by confirmed demand, providing lenders with clearer visibility on cash flows [5]. Future Financing Strategies - Companies focusing on equity-led expansion plan to eventually rely on debt financing to support their projects, indicating a shift towards a balanced mix of debt and equity as their portfolios grow [6].