Google to expand its data center in Finland
Google recently announced a substantial €1 billion investment in expanding its data center campus in Hamina, in southern Finland. This move is expected to have a significant impact on job creation, innovation, and economic activity in the region.
News 20.5.2024
Google's data center at Summa (Hamina, Finland) is one of the most advanced and efficient data centers in its fleet. Furthermore, for Finland, it is the largest foreign greenfield investment of all time.
Since 2009, Google has already invested €3.5 billion in its Hamina data center and related infrastructure. The latest announcement includes a strategic partnership with Haminan Energia, the local district heating provider. Together, they plan to capture and repurpose heat generated by the data center for district heating purposes.
“Finland plays a critical role in building Europe’s digital economy, and the strong tradition for innovation in Hamina and the Kymenlaakso region has been crucial to this", said Joe Kava, VP, Google Data Centers. “Our continued investments in our data center in Hamina is a testimony to Finland’s role as a digital frontrunner and will help to further unlock the potential of AI among companies in the Kymenlaakso region, across the country and in Europe.”
"Our continued investments in our data center in Hamina is a testimony to Finland’s role as a digital frontrunner." – Joe Kava
The expansion of Google’s data center is projected to create approximately 1,900 direct jobs, 1,650 indirect jobs, and 640 induced construction jobs annually over the next two years. Currently, the entire campus employs around 400 people in various roles, including computer technicians, engineers, security personnel, and facilities management staff. The expansion will add another 100 full-time positions, further contributing to Finland’s local economy.
“Today is a good day for Finland and a proud moment for Business Finland. With today’s announcement Google is cementing its position as the largest inward investor into Finland in the last decade. Finland needs foreign investment as they create sustainable growth, bring jobs, and strengthen the national economy”, says Nina Kopola, Director General of Business Finland.
Environmental Impact: Recovering Heat for District Heating
In addition to the financial investment, Google has partnered with the municipality of Hamina and Haminan Energia to recover excess heat from the data center. This recovered heat will meet approximately 80% of Hamina’s district-heating needs, benefiting households, schools, and public service buildings. By late 2025, this low-carbon emissions system is expected to contribute significantly to Hamina’s energy balance. Google’s commitment to sustainability extends beyond its core business, as it provides the recovered heat to Haminan Energia free of charge for use in the district heating network.
This recovered heat will meet approximately 80% of Hamina’s district-heating needs, benefiting households, schools, and public service buildings.
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