Google to invest €13bil in AI infrastructure in Finland

Google has announced plans to invest a staggering €13 billion (US$15 billion) in digital infrastructure across Finland over the next two years, marking the company's largest single investment in Europe. This significant commitment is a testament to Finland's role as a leader in responsibly building AI infrastructure.

The investments will encompass the construction of data centres and supporting infrastructure, with a focus on powering Google's AI services, including its renowned chatbot Gemini. The tech giant will also partner with municipalities in Hamina, Kajaani, Muhos, and Vaala, where these data centres will be located.

Beyond the infrastructure, Google has committed to supporting local biodiversity, education, research, and workforce development through clean energy projects and dedicated nature and community funds. Finland's Prime Minister, Petteri Orpo, emphasized the importance of this investment, stating that it will spur innovation, research, and development, benefiting both parties involved.

Google's expansion in Finland began in 2009 when the company purchased a former paper mill in the coastal city of Hamina and transformed it into a data centre. The construction of new investments is expected to commence in 2027 and 2028, with an estimated boost in Finland's GDP by €3.6 billion annually and the creation of over 37,000 jobs, including 16,000 in the construction sector.

Finland's favorable climate, characterized by its cool temperatures and stable, affordable electricity from nuclear plants, wind, and hydro power sources, has contributed to the boom in data centres in recent years. As the Nordic country grapples with record-high unemployment and sluggish economic growth, attracting investments in the data sector has been a top priority for Orpo's right-wing government.