Amazon Web Services (AWS) has just made a groundbreaking announcement that will significantly boost Spain’s technological infrastructure. AWS has committed to investing a staggering €15.7 billion in the Aragon region over the next decade. This substantial investment will see the construction of four new data centres, adding to the three that have been operational for the past eighteen months. This move not only highlights Spain’s growing importance in the tech world but also promises a tremendous economic impact, with projections estimating a €21.6 billion boost to the national GDP and the creation of 17,500 full-time jobs. As a result, Spain is set to become a key technological hub in Southern Europe, further solidifying its position on the global stage.
Aragon: The Heart of Spain’s Digital Transformation
This unprecedented investment in Aragon is a testament to the region’s strategic importance and potential. The four new data centres will cover approximately 350 hectares, significantly expanding AWS’s footprint in the area. This move is part of AWS’s broader strategy to enhance the infrastructure for cloud computing and artificial intelligence.
Aragon’s President, Jorge Azcón, hailed this investment as a historic moment for the community, emphasising that no other investment of this magnitude has ever been announced in the region’s history. The local government is keenly aware of the benefits that this investment will bring, from job creation to economic growth. Azcón noted that the project would generate 6,800 new jobs within the community and contribute an impressive €12.9 billion to the regional GDP, marking a 30% increase.
The decision to expand in Aragon is no coincidence. The region offers an array of advantages, including abundant land, access to renewable energy sources such as solar, wind, and hydroelectric power, and a well-established business ecosystem. Additionally, the administrative processes in Aragon are streamlined, making it easier for such large-scale projects to proceed smoothly.
A Strategic Investment for Spain’s Digital Future
Suzana Curic, the General Director of AWS in Spain and Portugal, described this investment as “great news” for the country. The project is expected to create a robust and secure communication infrastructure, crucial for the development and adoption of cutting-edge technologies like cloud computing and artificial intelligence. This initiative will further enhance Spain’s reputation as a key digital hub in Southern Europe.
The Minister for Digital Transformation and Public Service, José Luis Escrivá, echoed these sentiments, highlighting the significance of AWS’s commitment. Escrivá pointed out that the data centres’ 100% sustainability aligns perfectly with the Spanish government’s recently approved AI Strategy. This synergy between public policy and private investment underscores Spain’s dedication to becoming a leader in digital innovation and sustainable technology.
The new data centres will be located near the existing ones in Huesca, Villanueva de Gállego, and El Burgo de Ebro, with additional infrastructure planned for the Empresarium industrial estate. These locations were chosen for their strategic benefits, including proximity to renewable energy sources and existing technological infrastructure.
Catalysing Economic Growth and Technological Advancement
The economic impact of AWS’s investment cannot be overstated. By injecting €15.7 billion into the Aragonese economy, the project is set to create a ripple effect that will benefit multiple sectors. The construction and operational phases will generate thousands of jobs, both directly and indirectly, stimulating local businesses and boosting the regional economy.
Moreover, the presence of AWS’s data centres will attract other tech companies and investors to the region, fostering a vibrant technological ecosystem. This influx of talent and capital will position Aragon as a premier destination for technological innovation and business development. The region’s access to renewable energy sources will further enhance its appeal, particularly as companies increasingly prioritise sustainability.
Aragon’s selection as a key site for AWS’s expansion is a clear recognition of its potential. The region’s commitment to providing favourable conditions for technological growth, including streamlined administrative processes and support for sustainable practices, has made it an attractive destination for global tech giants.
AWS European Sovereign Cloud: A New Era for Digital Sovereignty
In addition to its investment in Aragon, AWS has announced a €7.8 billion investment in the AWS European Sovereign Cloud, reflecting AWS’s long-term commitment to meeting Europe’s digital sovereignty requirements. This investment will be made in Germany through 2040, with the first AWS Region set to launch in Brandenburg by the end of 2025. The AWS European Sovereign Cloud will provide an independent cloud infrastructure designed to meet stringent data sovereignty and privacy requirements within the EU.
Max Peterson, Vice President of Sovereign Cloud at AWS, emphasised that this investment will help provide the operational sovereignty customers require. This initiative is expected to contribute €17.2 billion to Germany’s GDP and support an average of 2,800 full-time equivalent jobs annually. These roles will include construction, facility maintenance, engineering, telecommunications, and other positions within the AWS data centre supply chain.
Continued Investment in Europe’s Digital Future
AWS’s investments in both Spain and Germany are part of a broader strategy to enhance Europe’s digital infrastructure. Over the past 25 years, AWS has driven economic development across Europe through investments in infrastructure, jobs, and skills. Since 2010, Amazon has invested over €150 billion in the EU, employing more than 150,000 people in permanent roles across the European Single Market.
In Germany, AWS’s collaboration with local communities includes innovative programmes to develop cloud workforce and education initiatives. These efforts are aimed at addressing the skills gap and preparing the workforce for future tech jobs. For example, AWS partnered with Siemens AG to create an apprenticeship programme for AWS data centres and launched the first national cloud computing certification with the German Chamber of Commerce.
The launch of the AWS European Sovereign Cloud builds on this long-term commitment, offering customers advanced sovereignty controls, privacy safeguards, and security features. The infrastructure will be operated exclusively by EU personnel, ensuring compliance with EU data residency and sovereignty requirements.
In conclusion, AWS’s investments in Aragon and the AWS European Sovereign Cloud mark significant milestones in Europe’s digital transformation. These strategic moves will enhance the continent’s technological infrastructure, drive economic growth, and create thousands of jobs. As Europe continues to attract major tech investments, it is poised to become a leading player in the global digital economy.
FAQ
AWS is investing €15.7 billion in Aragon to build four new data centers.
AWS’s investment is expected to boost Spain’s GDP by €21.6 billion and create 17,500 new jobs over the next decade.
Aragon was chosen for its strategic advantages, including abundant land, access to renewable energy, and a supportive business environment.
In addition to its investment in Aragon, AWS is investing €7.8 billion in the AWS European Sovereign Cloud in Germany through 2040.
The AWS European Sovereign Cloud is an independent cloud infrastructure designed to meet stringent data sovereignty and privacy requirements within the EU.
