Can AI Data Centers Save Local Areas? UAE Ambassador Inspects Scheduled Site in Akita A plan to build a large data center for artificial intelligence (AI) in Akita Prefecture has been attracting attention as a potential savior of the region, which is struggling with a declining population. On August 29, the UAE's ambassador to Japan, Essa Al Gergawi, inspected the site in Ogata, Akita Prefecture, where the data center is scheduled to be built. The data center, which will be built by a company called EcoPulse, is expected to start operation in 2027. The Akita Prefectural Government is pinning great hopes on the project, expecting it to have a positive impact on the local economy and help revitalize the area. The population of Akita Prefecture has been declining for 13 consecutive years, and the prefecture is considered one of the areas in Japan most affected by the declining population. The data center is expected to create about 600 jobs during the construction phase and around 100 permanent jobs after it starts operation. In addition, the prefectural government expects the data center to generate about 10 billion yen in economic impact annually. However, concerns remain about the environmental impact of the data center, including the large amount of electricity it will consume. The UAE ambassador's visit to the site was part of a broader effort to strengthen ties between Japan and the UAE. The two countries have been cooperating in various fields, including energy and technology. The UAE has been actively investing in Japan, and the ambassador's visit to Akita Prefecture is seen as a sign of the country's continued interest in the region. During his visit, Al Gergawi expressed his enthusiasm for the project, saying that it has the potential to be a game-changer for the region. He also emphasized the importance of cooperation between Japan and the UAE in the field of technology. The project is expected to be a major step forward in the development of AI technology in Japan and could have a significant impact on the country's economy. The Japanese government has been promoting the development of AI technology, and the data center in Akita Prefecture is seen as a key part of that effort. The project is also expected to contribute to the development of the region and help mitigate the effects of the declining population. The construction of the data center is expected to begin in 2025, with operation scheduled to start in 2027. The project is being closely watched by local residents, who are hopeful that it will bring new economic opportunities to the area.
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