atNorth's Groundbreaking Data Center Initiative
atNorth is launching an exciting project to build its largest data center in Denmark. This new facility, known as DEN02, will have an impressive initial capacity of 250MW and aims to transform the high-performance computing and colocation service landscape.
DEN02's Location and Design Features
The DEN02 campus will cover a vast 174-hectare greenfield site, strategically positioned just 40km from Billund Airport. This exceptional location is designed not only for colocation but also for build-to-suit projects tailored for data-intensive businesses, including hyperscalers and companies involved in AI and HPC workloads.
atNorth is adopting a modular design strategy, which allows the construction of DEN02 to adapt to demand. This approach ensures the facility can scale up to several hundred megawatts as needed, thereby supporting robust operational capabilities.
Advancements in Energy Efficiency
Eyjolfur Magnus Kristinsson, the CEO of atNorth, highlights the importance of this development, referring to it as a model for modern data centers. The design is highly energy-efficient and incorporates state-of-the-art heat reuse technologies that not only boost performance but also enhance sustainability. This facility will serve as a prime example for hyperscalers and businesses focused on reducing their carbon footprint.
Dedication to Sustainability
In line with its sustainability goals, atNorth has partnered with Wa3rm, a leader in the circular economy and bio-based operations. Together, they will recycle excess heat generated by the data center, which will be used to heat large greenhouses, benefiting the local agricultural sector and improving community resources.
Growing Renewable Energy Efforts
Additionally, atNorth is actively pursuing the development of sustainable energy sources, including wind and solar farms, near the DEN02 site. Denmark's commitment to renewable energy aims for a fully low-carbon society by 2050, and with its strong track record in renewable electricity supply, atNorth is well-positioned to contribute significantly to this ambitious goal.
Impact on the Community and Market
Vanessa Vega Saenz from Invest in Denmark emphasizes the benefits of establishing businesses in Denmark. The collaborative atmosphere fosters innovation and talent acquisition, positioning atNorth as a pivotal player in the sustainable growth of hyperscale data centers.
Comparison with Existing Data Centers
DEN02 will be atNorth's second data center in Denmark, following the upcoming DEN01, which is expected to have a capacity of 30MW and is set to begin operations soon. This phased approach reflects atNorth's strategic growth within the expanding Nordic data center market.
About atNorth
atNorth is a leading Nordic provider of data center services, committed to offering sustainable, flexible, and scalable solutions. Following its acquisition of the HPC leader Gompute in 2023, the company now provides a wide range of high-performance computing services designed to meet the needs of AI and critical workloads.
Central to atNorth’s operations is a strong commitment to sustainability. All data centers utilize renewable energy sources and adhere to circular economy principles, ensuring the delivery of innovative, energy-efficient solutions. The company’s well-structured infrastructure enables businesses to effectively manage and optimize their data workloads.
Based in Reykjavik, Iceland, atNorth operates seven data centers across the Nordics, with additional sites opening soon in Finland and Denmark. Their ongoing evolution aligns with a forward-thinking vision for a sustainable future.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the primary purpose of atNorth's new data center?
The DEN02 data center is designed to support data-intensive operations, particularly for hyperscalers and businesses involved in AI and high-performance computing.
How will DEN02 contribute to sustainability?
DEN02 will feature heat reuse technologies that repurpose excess heat for local greenhouses and community heating, thereby promoting circular economy practices.
What is the capacity of the DEN02 facility?
DEN02 will initially provide a capacity of 250MW, with the ability to expand to several hundred megawatts based on demand.
Where is DEN02 located?
The DEN02 data center is situated in Denmark, 40km west of Billund Airport, which ensures excellent connectivity for data transmission.
How does atNorth's acquisition of Gompute enhance its services?
The acquisition allows atNorth to offer a comprehensive range of high-performance computing services, specifically catering to demanding workloads in AI and data processing.
