Norway: The Next Frontier in Data Center Expansion

Reflection In this HawkTalk, Annemarie van Zadelhoff, Regional Director of EMEA at datacenterHawk, chats with Simon Justnes, CCO of Green Mountain, exploring why Norway is becoming a prime location for hyperscale data centers. The discussion uncovers insights into Green Mountain's operation, Norway's renewable energy resources, its favorable climate, and the cost advantages of operating within the Nordic country. Background Simon Justnes, serving as a vital component of Green Mountain, a premier data center provider in Norway, outlines his path in the data center sector and his involvement with Green Mountain since its early days in 2009. Justnes highlights the burgeoning market potential and the company's dedication to customer satisfaction and environmental sustainability. Who Green Mountain aims to serve Justnes explains that Green Mountain serves a diverse client base, encompassing enterprise customers, wholesale partners, and hyperscale entities. The company prioritizes offering scalable and reliable solutions for various workloads across numerous industries. Why is Norway Attractive for Hyperscale Data Centers? Justnes details why Norway is emerging as a favored location for hyperscale data centers, focusing on the availability of renewable energy sources and an accommodating climate. Norway's dedication to hydropower presents an environmentally friendly option for power needs, while the cooler climate facilitates energy-efficient cooling solutions, reducing energy consumption needs. Operational and Environmental Gains Justnes reflects on how Norway's clean energy and favorable climate positively affect operational efficiency and environmental impact. He highlights the increasing demand for greener, more sustainable solutions and the regulatory push for renewable energy. Additionally, Norway's competitive energy pricing offers Green Mountain's clients a significant advantage. What Makes Norway Cost-Effective? Justnes elaborates on Norway's cost-effectiveness, pointing to competitive energy rates and a beneficial tax environment. The affordability of land and the availability of power supply make Norway an attractive option for businesses looking to expand. Furthermore, the supportive stance of local municipalities and the Norwegian government towards attracting data center investments adds to Norway's appeal. Looking Ahead Justnes discusses Green Mountain's future ambitions, including expansion into Germany and an acquisition in London. While currently concentrated on the Norwegian market, the company is keen on exploring opportunities to expand capacity in existing markets. Justnes identifies three significant industry trends: the dominance of hyperscale data centers, the growing emphasis on sustainability and energy efficiency, and the potential for industry consolidation. Signing Off The conversation ends with Annemarie van Zadelhoff expressing appreciation to Simon Justnes for his insights into the allure of Green Mountain and Norway in the data center sector. She looks forward to a subsequent discussion to observe the company's progress and industry evolutions.