A significant new data center project is being planned in Finland, marking a major step forward in the development of energy-efficient and sustainable infrastructure. The proposed Ecogrid Energy Park Pori, located in the Kupariteollisuuspuisto industrial area of Pori, is set to include a cutting-edge data center and power plant. The collaboration between real estate development company CompassForge Ventures, Ecogrid.Energy, and construction firm NCC aims to create a next-generation energy park that integrates renewable energy solutions and efficient heat reuse.
Overview of the Ecogrid Energy Park Pori Project
Location and Site Details
The Ecogrid Energy Park Pori is being built on a 37-hectare plot in the Kupariteollisuuspuisto industrial park, located along the Kokemäenjoki River in Pori, a city on Finland’s west coast. Previously the site of copper and nickel production by Outokumpu, the location is now being repurposed for industrial development, including the creation of a large-scale data center facility. The project is part of the area’s transformation, with plans for construction to begin as early as the second half of 2025.
Project Scope and Phases
The €1 billion ($1.05 billion) Ecogrid Energy Park will consist of multiple components, including a data center and a power plant that will utilize hydrogen or biogas to provide load balancing to the local grid. The initial phase will focus on a 150MW data center, with plans for the overall park to eventually reach 300MW capacity. The development will also integrate waste heat recovery, supplying the local district heating network in East Pori.
The data center park will feature up to six buildings, although specific architectural details are still under wraps. The development aims to create a modern, energy-efficient data center hub that supports both local industry and global data demands.
Collaboration Between Key Stakeholders
CompassForge Ventures: Leading Property Development
CompassForge Ventures, responsible for the property development, has a strong track record in energy park projects. This development is aligned with their mission to build industrial parks powered by renewable energy sources. The company is backed by Virtanen Ltd., a prominent real estate development firm, and is working closely with NCC on the construction process.
Ecogrid.Energy: Innovation in Energy Management
Ecogrid.Energy, founded by Seppo Ihalainen (also the founder of Ficolo, which was acquired by D9 in 2022), plays a pivotal role in the project. The company is leading the design and optimization of the energy infrastructure, ensuring that the park uses sustainable energy solutions and offers energy management services at both the local and grid levels. This will enable the integration of renewable energy sources into the park’s operations while minimizing environmental impact.
NCC: Expanding into Industrial Development
NCC, a leading construction firm, has been integral to the development of the Ecogrid Energy Park Pori. The project marks a shift for NCC, which is traditionally known for residential development. This project will see the company expand into industrial construction in the Satakunta region, with a particular focus on the growth of energy-efficient infrastructure.
Future Expansion Plans: Raisio, Finland
Ecogrid Energy Park Raisio: Another Major Development
In addition to the Pori project, CompassForge Ventures and Ecogrid.Energy are planning a second Ecogrid energy park in Raisio, located outside Turku in southwest Finland. The site, covering 40 hectares, will initially have a capacity of 300MW and is expected to grow to 1GW over time. With zoning and pre-design already underway, the Raisio project is slated to be completed by 2030, positioning it as a key component in Finland’s sustainable energy future.
FAQ Section
What is the Ecogrid Energy Park Pori?
The Ecogrid Energy Park Pori is a major data center and energy park development planned for Pori, Finland. It will feature a 150MW data center in its first phase, with a total capacity of 300MW. The park will integrate renewable energy sources, load balancing through a hydrogen or biogas power plant, and waste heat recovery for local district heating.
Who are the key developers behind the project?
The project is being developed by CompassForge Ventures, in partnership with Ecogrid.Energy and NCC. CompassForge handles the property development, while Ecogrid.Energy leads energy infrastructure development, and NCC is responsible for construction.
When is construction expected to begin?
Construction on the Ecogrid Energy Park Pori is expected to start in the second half of 2025, following the completion of zoning and permitting processes.
How will the project benefit the local area?
The park will provide sustainable energy solutions, create industrial and data center facilities, and contribute to the local district heating network through waste heat recovery. It is also expected to attract further industrial investment to the region.
What is the Ecogrid Energy Park Raisio project?
The Ecogrid Energy Park Raisio is a planned expansion in Raisio, southwest Finland, with an initial 300MW capacity. The park aims to expand to 1GW by 2030, offering additional data center and energy infrastructure capabilities.
