Google breaks ground for data center in Horndal

Google has broken ground on a new data center in Horndal, Avesta municipality. The facility is designed for waste heat recycling and will meet growing demand for Google's services in Sweden and globally. The data center is expected to create 100 direct full-time jobs, along with thousands of additional jobs through construction contractors, suppliers, and local businesses. Google states it is already collaborating with nearly 60 Swedish suppliers during the construction phase, and that each direct job at the facility is expected to generate an additional 2.3 jobs in the broader Swedish economy, according to a press release from the company. The facility will use air-cooling technology, limiting water consumption. It is also designed with preparedness for district heating distribution, enabling the supply of waste heat to local properties and businesses. In conjunction with the announcement, Google is also announcing a €5 million fund for local initiatives in skills development, sustainability, and community development in Avesta. “This will provide businesses, public institutions, and individuals with even better and faster access to our technology and support the digital transformation in Sweden,” said Anna Wikland, CEO of Google Nordics