Lorraine Williamson
Microsoft has announced an additional investment of €2.8 billion to construct a new data centre in Zaragoza, Aragón. This investment supplements the company’s earlier commitment of over €6 billion. Furthermore, it brings Microsoft’s total investment in the region to nearly €9 billion.
Economic and employment benefits
The construction phase of the new data centre is expected to generate more than 1,000 jobs, with approximately 300 highly skilled positions anticipated during its operational phase. Aragón’s President, Jorge Azcón, highlighted this development reinforces the region’s status as a leading technological investment hub in Europe.
Strategic location and infrastructure
The data centre will occupy a 59-hectare site between Zaragoza’s Z-40 ring road and the Puerto Venecia area. Construction is slated to commence in 2026, with the initial phase involving an investment of €582 million over three years. Subsequent phases are planned over the next decade.
Aragón’s emergence as a Data centre hub
Aragón has become a focal point for major technological investments. In addition to Microsoft’s projects, Amazon Web Services (AWS) has announced a €15.7 billion investment over the next decade to expand its cloud infrastructure in the region. These developments position Aragón as a burgeoning data centre hub within Europe.
Infrastructure and energy considerations
The influx of data centres necessitates robust infrastructure, particularly in energy supply. President Azcón has called on the Spanish government to invest in the electrical grid to support this growth, emphasising Aragón’s potential as a leading technological hub.
Long-term economic impact
The cumulative effect of these investments is projected to significantly boost Aragón’s economy. The region’s strategic location, coupled with its capacity for renewable energy production, makes it an attractive destination for technology firms seeking sustainable and efficient operations.
Microsoft’s continued investment underscores Aragón’s growing prominence in the global data centre industry, promising substantial economic and technological advancements for the region.