Google Drops $15B on Finnish Data Centers
Google has announced it will invest at least $15 billion in Finland over the next two years, making it the largest single investment in Europe. The company plans to expand its data center in Hamina and build three new ones in Kajaani, Muhos, and Vaala.
The construction phase is expected to support more than 37,000 jobs across Finland and add $3.6 billion a year to the country's GDP. Once operational, the sites are expected to support around 7,000 permanent jobs, with average pay about 24% above Finland's national median wage.
Google has also signed a 22-year agreement with Finnish energy company Fortum to support the life extension of the Loviisa nuclear plant, which currently supplies about 10% of Finland’s electricity. Additionally, the company is adding new onshore wind capacity and contracting for a 94-megawatt battery system near its Kajaani site.
Ruth Porat, Google's chief investment officer, said the company was 'proud to deepen its roots in Finland with its largest single investment in Europe.'