Kyushu positions itself as the new hub of digital infrastructure in Asia with a project promising 250 MW of energy capacity by 2029.
In a strategic move to expand Japan’s digital infrastructure, Asia Pacific Land (APL) and Global Compute Infrastructure (GCI) have announced an ambitious collaboration to develop a new data centerA data center or data processing center (DPC) in Kyushu. This project not only represents a technological advance but also aims to consolidate Japan’s position as a leader in artificial intelligence (AI) solutions, cloud computing, and corporate deployments in the Asia-Pacific region.
Project Details
The project, set to be developed on a 15.5-acre site in Kitakyushu, Fukuoka Prefecture, will have an initial capacity of 120 MW by 2027. In a second phase, planned for 2029, the campus will expand its capacity to reach 250 MW. Kyushu’s strategic location offers unique advantages, such as lower electricity rates, abundant energy availability, and a robust connectivity network both locally and internationally.
Kyushu stands out as a key region for sustainability, with two-thirds of its power grid supplied by carbon-free sources. Additionally, the area features direct connections to Busan, South Korea, and other major cities in the Asia-Pacific through submarine fiber optic lines, solidifying its status as a strategic center for digital communications.
A Commitment to the Local Economy and Digital Transformation
Yoshinobu Takahara, Director of Investments for Asia at APL, emphasized that this project goes beyond physical infrastructure. “We are committed to collaborating with local and national governments to position Kyushu as a key player in Japan’s digital transformation. This will not only create technology-related jobs but also stimulate the local economy.”
Scott Peterson, President and CEO of GCI, highlighted the importance of this project to meet the growing demands for AI computing and cloud platforms. “Kyushu will become a strategic alternative for the most demanding clients, offering innovative and sustainable solutions in a competitive environment,” he stated.
A Boost for Artificial Intelligence and Cloud Computing
Announced during the Pacific Telecommunications Council (PTC) conference, this data center will not only respond to current market demands but will also be designed to support heavy workloads associated with artificial intelligence and cloud deployments. William Barney, Chairman of GCI’s Board, emphasized the significance of this project in a global context. “The acceleration of AI in the last 15 months has led us to take bold steps to reposition Japan as a natural hub for AI infrastructure.”
Development Outlook
The construction of the first project is expected to begin in 2026, with the first operational phase in September 2027. This development will not only solidify Kyushu’s position as the third data center hub in Japan, alongside Tokyo and Osaka, but will also reinforce Japan’s ability to lead in an increasingly digitalized world.
A Model of Sustainability and Collaboration
The collaboration between APL and GCI emphasizes not only the expansion of technological capabilities but also sustainability. With a focus on clean and renewable energy, this project represents a vision for a greener and digitally interconnected future.
This development will not only benefit Japan but will also serve as a strategic gateway for regional deployments in the Asia-Pacific, strengthening the country’s position as a leader in digital infrastructure.
Source: APL and Global Compute Infrastructure