EXPERT ARTICLE
Digitalization enables the green transition and the balancing of energy consumption
Digitalization and renewable energy production complement each other, with data centers playing a key role in this development. Data centers not only serve the needs of global digitalization but can also promote the green transition by enabling the meeting of renewable energy production and consumption. In Finland, these investments are particularly attractive due to the country’s affordable and low-emission electricity, stable infrastructure, and cool climate, which help reduce energy costs for data centers. Additionally, Finland’s expertise in developing and implementing energy-efficient solutions further supports these projects.
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Data centers are part of critical infrastructure
Data centers are the core structures of modern society. They enable digital data processing and storage, which support a large portion of modern business, communication, and public services. The reliability of data centers is crucial for both businesses and consumers.
Finland’s investments in cybersecurity, energy efficiency, and infrastructure development make the country an attractive destination for new data center investments. The importance of these centers will only grow as artificial intelligence, automation, and other digital solutions advance. Additionally, decentralizing data centers across the country enhances society’s resilience to crises and ensures that digital infrastructure remains operational even in exceptional situations.
By 2030, electricity consumption by data centers is expected to rise to 98.5 TWh, accounting for about 3.2% of the EU's total energy consumption. This represents a significant 28% increase compared to the 2018 level.
Why is Finland a good place for data centers? A competitive advantage is its cool climate
Finland has become one of the most attractive destinations for data center investments in Europe. Our country offers excellent conditions for new investments, and the growth of data centers supports both the economy and sustainable energy production. One of the most significant advantages is Finland’s affordable and low-emission electricity generation. Currently, electricity prices are exceptionally low, and the share of renewable energy in production is high. This creates a favorable environment for energy-efficient data centers that require reliable network connections. Additionally, Finland has a significant number of renewable energy projects awaiting investment decisions, and the growing demand for electricity can accelerate the implementation of these projects. At Despro alone, we have pre-designed projects for our clients amounting to thousands of megawatts, waiting for the realization of electricity consumption investments.
Another key competitive advantage of Finland is its cool climate, which allows for the use of natural cooling. This significantly reduces energy consumption and costs compared to warmer countries. Furthermore, Finland boasts an excellent telecommunications infrastructure, ensuring fast connections to international markets.
It’s time to support new investments
Now is the right time to promote new investments and leverage Finland’s strengths. The growing demand for electricity supports the expansion of renewable energy production, and data centers can play a key role in this development alongside other investments. As investments increase, it is important to continue focusing on infrastructure and skill development, such as network connections and the smoothness of design and construction, so that Finland can continue to offer a world-class environment for data centers.
Frequently Asked Questions about Data Center
A data center is an infrastructure that enables the operation of digital services such as cloud services and websites. It is a crucial part of modern digital infrastructure and critical to the functioning of business and society. Data centers consist of servers, networking equipment, and other technologies that ensure continuous data processing and availability. They can serve cloud service providers, large corporations, public administration, and other entities whose business relies on digital solutions. Additionally, modern data centers strive to increasingly utilize renewable energy and optimize their energy consumption to improve sustainability.
Data centers are crucial for the functioning of modern business, communications, and public services. They store, manage, and process vast amounts of data, enabling the digital world to operate efficiently.
Data centers consume a large amount of energy, but their energy efficiency and ability to use renewable energy can reduce environmental impacts. Such centers can also act as flexible electricity users and support the energy grid.
Data centers can be part of a broader energy system where renewable energy production and consumption are integrated. They can use wind and solar power, as well as regulate their electricity consumption, which contributes to the green transition
How can we help?
At Despro, we have extensive experience in data centers, renewable energy, transitioning to low-emission technologies, and energy efficiency, as well as integrating these into everyday operations in a changing world. Our experts from various fields are happy to support you, from preliminary studies to energy management, ensuring your project reaches a successful conclusion. Feel free to get in touch, and we’ll help you find the solutions that best suit your needs!
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Karoliina Tuominen will explain in a free consultation what aspects should be considered during the project development phase. Additionally, you will receive a clear action plan for the critical stages of the project’s lifecycle.