kathimerini.gr
Greece Emerges as Key Data Center and AI Investment Hub
Greece is attracting significant investment in data center and AI infrastructure, with a projected 18 new data centers by 2030 and a €1 billion investment by Dromeus Capital and Apto in a three-data-center complex near a Microsoft project in Spata, positioning Athens as a potential major European hub.
- What is the significance of Greece's emergence as a key location for data centers and AI infrastructure within the broader European context?
- Greece's strategic location and digital progress position it as a prime emerging market for data centers and AI infrastructure, attracting significant investment. A Cushman & Wakefield analysis shows that by the end of 2024, EMEA data center capacity increased by 9% to 21 GW, with Athens among emerging markets showing high growth potential.
- What are the potential long-term challenges and opportunities for Greece in maintaining its competitive edge in attracting data center and AI investments?
- The Dromeus/Apto investment, starting with a 15 MVA data center (15,000-20,000 sq m), anticipates clients like Google, Amazon Web Services, and Microsoft, highlighting Greece's potential to become a major European hub for cloud and AI, creating jobs and attracting further investment. The proximity of these investments suggests potential for synergies and accelerated growth.
- What factors contribute to the substantial private investment in Greek data center infrastructure, and what are the projected impacts on the Greek economy?
- The Greek government projects the development of 18 new data centers by 2030, primarily in Attica and Thessaloniki. This aligns with a €1 billion investment by Dromeus Capital and Apto (PIMCO) for a three-data-center complex in Spata, near a Microsoft investment, indicating substantial private sector confidence.
Cognitive Concepts
Framing Bias
The article frames the development of data centers in Greece as a highly positive and promising opportunity, emphasizing the strategic location and potential for attracting major players like Google and Microsoft. The headline (if any) and introductory paragraphs likely contribute to this overwhelmingly optimistic tone.
Language Bias
The language used is largely positive and enthusiastic, employing terms like "significant opportunities," "ideal hub," and "major player." While accurate, these phrases lean towards promoting the positive aspects rather than offering a neutral assessment. More neutral terms such as "potential opportunities," "strategic location," and "key participant" could be used.
Bias by Omission
The article focuses primarily on the potential of the Greek market for data centers and AI infrastructure, mentioning specific investments and projections. However, it omits discussion of potential challenges or drawbacks, such as regulatory hurdles, energy costs, or competition from other European countries. A more balanced perspective would include these aspects.
False Dichotomy
The article presents a largely positive outlook on the Greek data center market, without fully exploring alternative scenarios or potential risks. While acknowledging that Athens is among emerging markets, it doesn't delve into the comparative advantages or disadvantages compared to other locations mentioned.
Gender Bias
The article mentions Ioanna Palyvou, managing partner of Cushman & Wakefield Proprius, and quotes her analysis. While this is positive representation, more diverse voices within the industry (including men) would enhance the analysis.
Sustainable Development Goals
The article highlights the growth of data centers and AI infrastructure in Greece, attracting significant investments and creating job opportunities. This directly contributes to SDG 9 (Industry, Innovation, and Infrastructure) by developing advanced infrastructure and promoting technological innovation.