atNorth Partners with Kesko Corporation for Heat Reuse
atNorth is setting a remarkable example in sustainable technology by partnering with Finnish retailer Kesko Corporation. This collaboration illustrates a commitment to responsible operations focused on enhancing energy efficiency while contributing to Finland's circular economy.
Transforming Waste Heat into Resource
The partnership enables the recovery of waste heat from atNorth's FIN02 data center, located in Sinimäki, Espoo. This reclaimed heat will substantially supply heating needs for the nearby Kesko store, remarkably fulfilling almost all of the store's energy requirements for heating. Such initiatives align with Kesko's ambitious goal to reduce its scope 1 and scope 2 emissions significantly.
Significant Emission Reductions
Each year, this collaboration is expected to decrease Kesko's carbon emissions associated with district heating by about 0.9 percent, amounting to approximately 200 tons of CO2 equivalent. This reduction equates to the annual heating needs of approximately 120 detached houses. Thus, it can be seen as a significant stride toward environmental sustainability for both companies.
Commitment to Energy Stability
Alongside its efforts with Kesko, atNorth has engaged in an agreement with Caruna Espoo Oy to secure a reliable power supply of 45MW for its FIN02 data center. This investment not just benefits atNorth but also enhances the overall power infrastructure, showcasing a proactive approach towards energy stability in the region.
Resilience through Collaboration
Kosti Rautiainen, EVP Customers and New Ventures at Caruna, emphasizes the crucial role of data centers in fostering long-term resilience in Finland's economic landscape. By developing innovative partnerships focused on heat reuse, organizations can pave the way for local employment opportunities while bolstering the transition to a carbon-free energy system.
Future Developments and Investments
atNorth has been making significant strides since its entry into Finland, having acquired two data centers earlier this year from Advania. These sites, known as FIN01 and FIN03, are strategically positioned to support the growing digital landscape of Helsinki.
The company is also underway with the development of its latest data center, FIN02, which recently became operational, and another anticipated mega site, FIN04, expected to be launched by the end of 2025. Each initiative reflects atNorth's dedication to leveraging technology in a manner that prioritizes sustainability and resource efficiency.
Sustainability at the Core
With a focus on renewable energy resources, atNorth integrates sustainability at the heart of its operations. The designs employed in its data centers promote energy efficiency through innovative operations, essentially creating a model where businesses can optimize their computational workloads cost-effectively while supporting sustainable practices.
About atNorth
atNorth stands as a frontrunner in Nordic data center services, delivering scalable colocation and high-performance computing solutions for industry-leading organizations. Notably, its acquisition of Gompute in 2023 has enabled it to offer an extensive range of services tailored towards critical high-performance workloads, particularly in the realm of artificial intelligence.
Headquartered in Reykjavik, Iceland, atNorth operates eight data centers across the Nordics, with plans for expansion into Ballerup, Denmark, and Kouvola, Finland. The company's initiatives also include securing land for future mega sites, showcasing a forward-thinking approach to business and sustainability.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the purpose of atNorth's partnership with Kesko Corporation?
AtNorth and Kesko Corporation have partnered to recycle waste heat from atNorth's data center to support Kesko's heating needs, aiming for significant emission reductions.
How much CO2 emission reduction is anticipated from this partnership?
The collaboration is expected to save approximately 200 tons of CO2 emissions each year, contributing significantly to both companies' sustainability goals.
What other agreements has atNorth entered into?
AtNorth has also partnered with Caruna Espoo Oy to secure a reliable power supply for its FIN02 data center, enhancing regional energy stability.
When did atNorth enter the Finnish market?
AtNorth began its operations in Finland in early 2023, focusing on several strategic investments and developments in the region.
What is atNorth's core philosophy regarding sustainability?
AtNorth emphasizes sustainability through the use of renewable energy in its operations, aiming to support a circular economy and enhance energy efficiency across its data centers.
