E N D- U S E R I N S I G H T

Norway is rapidly establishing itself as a burgeoning hub for data centre infrastructure, attracting significant investment from global hyperscale operators and colocation providers alike.

The primary drivers behind this impressive growth are multifaceted. Foremost is Norway’ s unparalleled access to abundant, low-cost and entirely renewable energy, predominantly from hydropower.

According to a report by Ember Energy, the global, independent energy think tank, more than 98 % of Norway’ s electricity production is derived from green sources, making it an ideal location for energy-intensive data centres seeking to minimise their carbon footprint and meet stringent sustainability objectives. This, coupled with a naturally cool climate, allows for highly efficient‘ free cooling’ techniques, significantly reducing operational costs and improving Power Usage Effectiveness( PUE).

Key players are leveraging these advantages, often repurposing existing facilities like disused mines for unique, highly secure and energy-efficient operations. Global giants like Microsoft, Google and Amazon Web Services are also expanding their presence, drawn by the stable political environment, robust digital infrastructure and a government keen to position Norway as a leading data centre nation.

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However, challenges remain. While the industry is growing, direct job creation within data centres themselves can be limited, leading to questions about broader economic impact. There’ s also an ongoing focus on ensuring that the expansion of the power grid can keep pace with burgeoning demand, particularly for large hyperscale facilities. Despite these considerations, Norway’ s compelling combination of green energy, natural cooling and strong connectivity firmly positions it as a highly

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