atNorth Expands with New 30MW Data Center in Stockholm

atNorth, a leading Nordic high-density colocation and built-to-suit data center provider, has announced its plans to construct a new 30MW metro data center in Stockholm, Sweden. This facility, designated as SWE02, will be located near the existing SWE01 site, which opened in March 2022. The new data center is expected to facilitate seamless operations between the two campuses, enhancing the company's service offerings.

The SWE02 data center will incorporate heat reuse capabilities, allowing it to recover and recycle excess heat for use within the local community. This initiative is in collaboration with Stockholm Exergi, highlighting atNorth's commitment to sustainability and the circular economy.

The integration of heat reuse technology in the SWE02 data center is significant for several reasons. Firstly, it aligns with global trends towards sustainability in data center operations, where energy efficiency and environmental responsibility are increasingly prioritized. By recycling heat, atNorth not only reduces its operational carbon footprint but also contributes to local energy needs, thereby enhancing community relations.

Moreover, this initiative supports Stockholm's climate goals, as emphasized by local officials. Karin Wanngård, the Mayor of Stockholm, noted that the development of the SWE02 campus will create employment opportunities and further establish the city as a hub for digital infrastructure excellence. This reflects a growing recognition of the role that data centers can play in local economies and environmental strategies.

The expansion of atNorth's data center operations in Stockholm is also set to improve the local electrical infrastructure. A new electrical substation will be constructed by Ellevio, a network company, to enhance the resilience of the electrical network in the surrounding area. This development is crucial as it ensures that the growing demand for energy from data centers can be met without compromising the stability of the local grid.

The collaboration with Ellevio indicates a strategic approach to energy management, ensuring that atNorth's operations are not only sustainable but also integrated into the broader energy ecosystem of Stockholm. This could serve as a model for future data center developments in other regions, where energy supply and demand must be carefully balanced.

atNorth's expansion reflects a broader trend in the data center market, where companies are increasingly seeking to establish operations in regions that prioritize sustainability and energy efficiency. The announcement of SWE02 comes on the heels of atNorth's recent expansions in Iceland and plans for a mega site in Sollefteå, Sweden, indicating a robust growth trajectory.

As demand for high-performance digital infrastructure continues to rise, atNorth's focus on sustainable practices may position it favorably against competitors. The company's commitment to renewable energy and circular economy principles is likely to resonate with clients who are increasingly concerned about their own environmental impact.

Looking ahead, stakeholders should monitor the progress of the SWE02 data center's construction and its integration with local energy systems. The operational launch scheduled for Q4 2027 will be a critical milestone, as it will provide insights into the effectiveness of the heat reuse strategy and its impact on local energy consumption.

Additionally, the development of the new electrical substation by Ellevio will be a key factor in ensuring that the increased energy demands of the SWE02 campus are met. Observing how this infrastructure evolves will be essential for understanding the long-term viability of data centers in urban settings, particularly in terms of energy supply and environmental sustainability.