Google plans to invest a total of €13 billion in Finland in 2027 and 2028 to expand the country’s artificial intelligence infrastructure. Described as the company’s largest single investment in Europe, the project will cover energy infrastructure as well as data centers.
The investment is expected to include the development of electricity grids and the implementation of clean energy and battery projects. The infrastructure will help meet global demand for Gemini, Google Search, Maps and YouTube services.
More than 37,000 jobs during construction
Bikash Koley, Google’s vice president of global infrastructure, said the project would support more than 37,000 jobs across Finland during the construction phase. The investment is expected to contribute approximately €3.6 billion annually to the country’s gross domestic product.
Once the data centers begin operating at full capacity, thousands of permanent jobs are expected to be created in engineering, security and operations.
€31 million for local communities and education
Google will spend €31 million over four years to support local communities, education initiatives and economic growth in Hamina, Kajaani, Muhos and Vaala.
The plan includes partnerships with local colleges, providing more than 4,400 employees with artificial intelligence skills and offering 100 Finnish students specialized training to pursue careers at data centers.
Nuclear and battery support for energy infrastructure
Google has signed a 22-year agreement to extend the operating life of the Loviisa Nuclear Power Plant as part of efforts to strengthen Finland’s energy grid.
The company has also committed to adding new onshore wind power capacity to the grid. A new 94-megawatt battery system will be installed to help balance energy prices during cold, windless periods.
Finland’s climate offers an advantage for data centers
Finnish Prime Minister Petteri Orpo described Google’s investment decision as clear evidence of the country’s strengths.
Finland’s cool climate reduces the need to cool data centers, while low-carbon electricity sources are also increasing technology companies’ interest in the country. Microsoft and ByteDance, the owner of TikTok, are among the companies investing in Finland to reduce energy costs and meet their climate targets.
