Nordic colocation provider atNorth has recently acquired a 30-hectare plot of land in Långsele, Sweden, located within the Sollefteå municipality’s Hamre Industripark. This acquisition signals atNorth’s strategic move to expand its data center infrastructure in the region. The land is intended for a major data center development, which will be the company’s first “mega site.”
Though the company has not disclosed specific plans or timelines for the development, the project is expected to be a key milestone in atNorth’s ongoing expansion across the Nordic region.
Overview of atNorth’s Expansion Strategy
atNorth’s Growing Presence in the Nordic Region
Founded in 2012 as Advania, atNorth has evolved into a significant player in the Nordic colocation market. The company has established a strong presence in multiple countries across the region, with operational and upcoming sites in Sweden, Denmark, Iceland, and Finland.
In February 2022, atNorth revealed plans for a large-scale data center campus with a 50MW capacity. While the location remained uncertain at the time, the recent acquisition in Långsele could be linked to these plans. The new facility is expected to add significant capacity to atNorth’s portfolio, positioning the company to cater to increasing demand for data processing and storage solutions in the region.
The Significance of Långsele, Sweden
Långsele, a locality within the Sollefteå municipality in Sweden, has been identified as a promising location for large-scale data center projects. The region benefits from an advantageous climate and abundant renewable energy sources, both of which are crucial for sustainable data center operations.
In addition to its technical advantages, the investment aligns with Sweden’s broader goal of becoming a hub for green and sustainable technology. Johan Andersson, chair of the municipal executive committee, expressed enthusiasm for the project, highlighting its potential to strengthen the region’s position as a center for innovation and sustainable development.
AtNorth’s Previous Data Center Developments
Key Milestones in atNorth’s Growth
atNorth’s most recent facilities include the SWE01 site in Stockholm, which opened in 2022. This facility spans 6,400 sqm (68,900 sq ft) and has a capacity of more than 11MW, offering colocation services to businesses in Sweden’s capital.
Additionally, atNorth has expanded its presence in Iceland with the ICE02 and ICE03 sites. These facilities are part of the company’s ongoing strategy to leverage Iceland’s cool climate and renewable energy resources to support efficient data center operations.
Further growth is also underway in Denmark, with atNorth planning a DEN02 facility in Varde, expected to come online in 2025 with a 30MW capacity. Another site in Denmark, located near Ballerup, is already under construction and will complement the company’s expanding regional network.
Finland: Four Operational and Under-Construction Sites
AtNorth has a strong footprint in Finland, where it operates four sites, some of which are under construction. Finland’s stable political environment, access to renewable energy, and favorable conditions for data center operations make it an attractive market for atNorth’s expansion.
The Environmental and Economic Impact of the New Data Center
Harnessing Sustainable Energy for Data Center Operations
Sustainability is a key focus for atNorth, and its new site in Långsele will likely follow the company’s established approach of incorporating energy-efficient, eco-friendly technologies into its facilities. Sweden’s abundance of renewable energy, particularly from hydropower, offers a clear advantage for data centers seeking to reduce their carbon footprint.
AtNorth’s commitment to sustainable technology aligns with Sweden’s broader push to become a leader in green energy and sustainable infrastructure. As the company expands its presence in the Nordic region, it continues to emphasize its dedication to environmental stewardship.
Potential Economic Benefits for Sollefteå Municipality
The development of the Långsele data center will bring significant economic benefits to the Sollefteå municipality. The project is expected to create jobs and stimulate local economic activity, both during the construction phase and in the long term. AtNorth’s investment is a vote of confidence in the region’s potential to host cutting-edge infrastructure projects.
Johan Andersson, chair of the municipal executive committee, noted that the project would strengthen the region’s reputation as a hub for innovation. Collaborating with atNorth, a recognized leader in sustainable data center solutions, enhances the municipality’s appeal as a destination for further investment in the tech sector.
What’s Next for atNorth’s Data Center Development?
Uncertainty Around Timelines and Specifications
While the acquisition of the Långsele plot marks a major step forward for atNorth, the company has not yet disclosed detailed specifications or timelines for the new data center. Industry professionals and stakeholders will be watching closely to see how atNorth moves forward with its development plans.
It remains unclear whether the Långsele site will serve as the location for the previously announced 50MW large-scale data center campus, as the company had not finalized a location for this project. However, the 30-hectare plot in Långsele presents a strong potential site for such a development.
Strategic Benefits of the New Mega Site
The Långsele facility will likely be part of a broader strategy to create a network of high-capacity, sustainable data centers across the Nordic region. The new site will enhance atNorth’s ability to serve a growing customer base and meet the increasing demand for data processing, storage, and colocation services.
The Future of Nordic Data Centers
AtNorth’s investment in Sweden reflects the broader trend of increasing demand for data center capacity across the Nordic region. With a robust infrastructure and a commitment to sustainability, the Nordic countries are poised to continue attracting major investments in data center development.
FAQ Section
1. What is atNorth’s new data center in Långsele, Sweden?
AtNorth has acquired a 30-hectare plot in Långsele, Sweden, to build its first “mega site” for data center operations. This is part of its ongoing expansion in the Nordic region, though specific development plans and timelines have not yet been disclosed.
2. Why is Långsele, Sweden, a good location for a data center?
Långsele offers a favorable climate and abundant renewable energy resources, making it an ideal location for sustainable and energy-efficient data center operations.
3. What is atNorth’s sustainability strategy for its data centers?
AtNorth prioritizes sustainable technologies and renewable energy in its data center operations. This aligns with Sweden’s green energy initiatives and reduces the environmental impact of data processing.
4. How many data centers does atNorth have?
AtNorth operates several data centers across the Nordic region, including sites in Iceland, Denmark, Finland, and Sweden. It has additional facilities under construction and planned for the future.
5. How does atNorth’s expansion impact the local economy?
AtNorth’s new data center in Långsele is expected to create jobs, stimulate economic activity, and enhance the region’s reputation as a tech hub, benefiting the local economy in the long term.
