Data center operator EdgeConneX has partnered with an Australian real estate firm.

In its most recent earnings results, ASX-listed real estate firm Stockland announced it had formed an exclusive arrangement with EdgeConneX to establish a partnership to develop, own, and operate a data center portfolio, and was “exploring opportunities across Stockland’s logistics pipeline.”

The 50:50 joint venture will combine “Stockland’s land, development and project management expertise with EdgeConneX’s technical capabilities and hyperscaler relationships.”

The company said further discussions with hyperscalers will determine the ultimate size of the vehicle.

Stockland added that it has secured power and zoning for a 100MW+ data center development at MPark Stage 2, in New South Wales. Further building details were yet to be determined. Construction commencement is anticipated in FY 2027.

“We’ve ... announced today an exclusive arrangement to partner with EdgeConneX, a leading global data center provider backed by EQT Infrastructure, to develop, own, and operate a portfolio of Australian data centers,” Stockland CEO, Tarun Gupta, said. “Subject to documentation and approvals, this collaboration marks a significant step forward with a high-quality operator in hyperscale infrastructure.”

Stockland noted further pipeline opportunities targeted across its landholdings, and has identified “several sites” across Sydney and Melbourne.

Stockland is a Sydney-based property company founded in 1952. Its portfolio includes residential retail, and industrial developments. Located in the Macquarie Park Innovation District (MPID), MPark is a $2 billion mixed-use precinct - the company has previously developed a data center in an earlier phase of the park.

Founded in 2009, EdgeConneX has a global footprint of 80 data centers in operation or development across more than 50 markets across North America, Europe, APAC, and South America. The company was initially focused on smaller-scale data centers in the US, but has gradually expanded its scope and geography, moving into build-to-suit and hyperscale facilities.

EdgeConneX doesn’t currently have any data centers in Australia.

EQT’s Infrastructure IV fund acquired the colocation provider from an investor group led by Providence Equity Partners in August 2020 for an undisclosed fee, though previous rumors of a sale suggested a potential $2.5bn price tag. EQT’s Infrastructure V invested in EdgeConneX the following year. Investment firm Sixth Street acquired a minority stake in the firm last year.