Google will make its largest investment in Europe in Finland's AI infrastructure
Google plans to invest at least €13 billion in Finland's digital and AI infrastructure during 2027-2028. The company calls this project its largest single investment in Europe.
The funds will be directed to data centers and related infrastructure in Hamina, Kajaani, Muhos, and Vaala. The capacities will be used, in particular, for the development of artificial intelligence and the operation of Google services, including Gemini, Search, Maps, and YouTube.
Google has been operating in Finland for over 15 years. In 2009, the company purchased a former paper mill in Hamina and converted it into a data center. New centers in other regions of the country will now be added to this site.
Google expects the creation of tens of thousands of jobs
According to the company's estimate, during the main construction period in 2027-2028, the investment program could add an average of €3.6 billion annually to Finland's GDP and support more than 37,000 jobs across the country. About 16,000 of these will be in the construction sector.
After the new infrastructure is launched, Google expects its operations to support about 7,000 jobs annually – directly at the facilities, at supplier companies, and in related industries.
Growth of AI will require more electricity
Along with data centers, Google is expanding energy projects in Finland. The company has signed a long-term power purchase agreement with Fortum to help extend the operation of the Loviisa nuclear power plant. The agreement runs for 22 years and provides for Google to purchase up to 50% of the plant's capacity in the future.
Loviisa currently provides about 10% of Finland's electricity production. Google and Fortum also agreed to explore possibilities for building new nuclear, renewable, and balancing energy capacities.
In addition, Google supports new wind projects with a total capacity of 629 MW and plans to connect a 94 MW battery system near Kajaani to help balance the Finnish energy system.
Separately, the company will allocate €31 million over four years for local projects in Hamina, Kajaani, Muhos, and Vaala. Part of these funds will be used for education, research, workforce training, and environmental programs.
