Dutch cloud firm Nebius is constructing one of Europe’s largest AI-dedicated data centres in Lappeenranta, Finland, set to deliver up to 310 megawatts (MW) of power. This development underscores the growing demand for computing infrastructure to support the rapidly expanding artificial intelligence sector.
The Rise of AI Factories
Data centres are increasingly vital for the AI race, providing the massive processing power and storage needed to train and operate complex models. Unlike traditional data centres, these “AI factories” are designed from the ground up to maximize efficiency for machine learning workloads. Nebius’s project is significant because it aims to provide a substantial portion of the continent’s growing AI infrastructure.
Cooling and Sustainability
The Lappeenranta facility will use a closed-loop liquid cooling system to minimize water consumption while maintaining optimal server temperatures. Importantly, excess heat generated by the servers won’t be wasted: it will be captured and fed into the local district heating network, providing a sustainable energy source for nearby homes.
Economic Impact and Expansion Plans
The construction of the data centre is expected to create approximately 700 jobs, with an additional 100 permanent positions once operational. Nebius plans to supply at least 2.5 gigawatts (GW) of power by the end of 2026, scaling up to 3.3 GW by 2030, making it one of the largest purpose-built AI compute footprints globally. This includes a second facility in Lille, France, with 240 MW of power.
Europe’s Data Centre Growth
Europe’s total data centre power capacity has already increased substantially, from 10,539 MW in 2023 to around 14,784 MW in 2025. While other projects, like the one in Strängnäs, Sweden (potentially 350-750 MW ), are also in development, Nebius’s initiative stands out due to its focus on AI-specific infrastructure. The Lappeenranta factory is scheduled to be completed in 2027.
This expansion highlights Europe’s commitment to securing its position in the global AI race, with strategic investments in high-capacity, sustainable data centres. The shift toward AI-specialized facilities reflects a recognition that traditional data centres alone will not meet the demands of increasingly complex AI applications.
