SoftBank's €75 Billion Bet on French Data Centers
SoftBank is set to invest €75 billion to expand data center capacity in France, aiming for 5 gigawatts of additional power. Discover how this monumental investment positions France as a leader in AI infrastructure.
Major Investment in Data Centers
SoftBank Group has announced a groundbreaking plan to invest up to €75 billion (approximately $87 billion) in expanding data center capacity across France. This ambitious initiative aims to develop and operate up to 5 gigawatts of additional data center capacity, with the first phase focusing on locations in Dunkirk, Bosquel, and Bouchain, targeting 3.1 gigawatts by 2031.
This investment marks SoftBank's largest commitment to AI infrastructure in Europe, reflecting a strategic move to enhance the region's capabilities in the rapidly evolving tech landscape. French economic minister Roland Lescure hailed the announcement as a testament to President Emmanuel Macron's vision of positioning France as a key player in the AI value chain.
- Key Highlights of the Investment:
- €75 billion investment in French data centers
- Targeting 5 gigawatts of capacity
- Initial focus on Dunkirk, Bosquel, and Bouchain
- Aims to bolster France's AI infrastructure