Verne Global, a leading provider of data center solutions, has announced plans to build a new 70MW+ data center in Mäntsälä, Finland. This development marks the company’s fifth data center in the Nordic region and is part of its broader expansion strategy across Northern Europe. The site will offer a range of innovative features and environmental benefits, aiming to meet the growing demand for sustainable and high-performance computing infrastructure.
Verne Global Expands Its Nordic Footprint
Verne Global, which already operates several facilities in Finland, has chosen Mäntsälä as the location for its latest project. This new development is part of a strategic push to expand its presence in the Nordic region. The company’s decision to invest in Mäntsälä is backed by the region’s established data center industry, abundant clean energy resources, and a highly skilled workforce, making it an ideal site for the new data center.
The project also comes on the heels of Verne’s acquisition by private investment firm Ardian in early 2024, which is expected to accelerate the company’s expansion plans. With an investment of $1.2 billion, Verne aims to enhance its data center network across Northern Europe, with Finland playing a central role in these ambitions.
Why Mäntsälä, Finland?
Mäntsälä, located approximately 40 minutes from Helsinki-Vantaa International Airport, provides several advantages for data center operations. The site’s strategic location near key infrastructure and its access to reliable and renewable energy sources make it a prime candidate for Verne’s new data center. The company’s investment in this location reflects its commitment to meeting the growing demand for high-performance computing solutions while minimizing its environmental footprint.
Finland, with its cool climate and advanced energy grid, is particularly attractive to data center operators looking to reduce their energy consumption and carbon footprint. The country is home to some of the world’s most energy-efficient data centers, powered largely by renewable energy sources such as hydroelectric and wind power. This aligns with Verne Global’s vision of operating sustainable data centers that contribute to reducing global emissions.
Key Features of the New Data Center
Verne Global plans to build a state-of-the-art data center at the Mäntsälä site with a total capacity of over 70MW. The facility will offer advanced features designed to support the needs of global enterprises, including robust connectivity, high levels of security, and scalable infrastructure.
The data center will be powered entirely by renewable energy, ensuring a minimal environmental impact. Additionally, the facility’s waste heat will be repurposed and offered to the local community, providing an added benefit to the surrounding area. This commitment to sustainability is a hallmark of Verne Global’s operations, which are focused on creating value not only for their customers but also for the communities in which they operate.
Construction Timeline and Future Plans
Construction of the Mäntsälä data center is scheduled to begin in mid-2025, with the facility expected to be fully operational by 2027. Once completed, it will be Verne’s fourth data center in Finland, joining the company’s existing facilities in Helsinki, Pori, and Tampere. These sites were acquired in 2022 as part of Verne’s purchase of Ficolo, a Finnish data center provider.
In addition to its Finnish operations, Verne Global also has a major data center in Iceland, which serves as the company’s flagship facility. The Icelandic site is known for its energy efficiency and sustainable design, utilizing the country’s abundant geothermal and hydroelectric resources. The Mäntsälä project further strengthens Verne’s position as a leading player in the Nordic data center market.
Verne’s Expanding Nordic Presence
Verne Global’s expansion in Finland is part of a broader trend in the region, with several other major players investing in data center infrastructure. In October 2024, Nebius, a European AI data center developer, announced plans to expand its facility in Mäntsälä from 25MW to 75MW. Additionally, Google has recently acquired two plots of land further north in Finland for a potential data center expansion, building on its existing large campus in Hamina.
The influx of investments from global technology companies underscores the growing importance of the Nordic region as a hub for data center development. The combination of clean energy, favorable climate conditions, and a strong technical workforce makes the Nordic countries a top destination for data center operators looking to build sustainable and efficient infrastructure.
Verne’s Focus on Sustainability and Innovation
Verne Global is committed to operating data centers that not only meet the demands of the digital economy but also contribute to environmental sustainability. The company’s strategy focuses on minimizing its carbon footprint and using renewable energy sources to power its facilities. The Mäntsälä data center will be a key part of this mission, as Verne continues to innovate in the design and operation of its facilities to reduce environmental impact.
Verne’s use of waste heat for local community heating is a prime example of how the company is incorporating sustainable practices into its data center operations. This initiative not only benefits the environment but also provides cost-effective energy solutions to local residents and businesses.
Verne’s Growth Strategy Post-Acquisition
The acquisition of Verne Global by Ardian marks a new chapter for the company as it accelerates its growth in Northern Europe. The $1.2 billion investment from Ardian is expected to fuel the company’s expansion plans, including the development of new data centers in Finland and other key markets across the region.
Dominic Ward, CEO of Verne Global, highlighted the importance of the Mäntsälä project in the company’s overall growth strategy. He stated, “Finland, with its abundant clean energy, established data center industry, and highly skilled workforce, offers the perfect environment for our latest development.”
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FAQ Section
What is the capacity of Verne’s new data center in Mäntsälä, Finland?
The new data center in Mäntsälä will have a capacity of more than 70MW.
When is construction expected to start for the Mäntsälä data center?
Construction is expected to begin in mid-2025, with the facility slated for completion by 2027.
How will Verne Global’s Mäntsälä data center contribute to sustainability?
The data center will be powered by renewable energy, and its waste heat will be repurposed for use by the local community.
What other companies are expanding their data center presence in Finland?
Nebius, a European AI data center developer, and Google have both announced expansions in Finland, including in Mäntsälä.
Why is Mäntsälä a good location for data centers?
Mäntsälä offers access to clean energy, a cool climate, and proximity to Helsinki-Vantaa International Airport, making it an ideal site for data center operations.