Powered shell

A powered shell is a data center building delivered with the core structure, secured utility power connection, and basic site infrastructure in place, but without the tenant-side fit-out — no UPS, generators, cooling plant, or racks. The tenant installs its own electrical and mechanical systems to its preferred specifications. Powered shell leases are priced far below turnkey wholesale capacity (often quoted per square foot or per MW of available utility power rather than per kW of critical load) and appeal to hyperscalers that have their own supply chains and design standards. For developers, shells are faster and cheaper to deliver; the secured grid connection is the scarce asset. Powered shell sits between land-plus-power sales and fully fitted turnkey data halls in the development value chain.