The asset management firm Brookfield Asset Management has announced an investment of 20 billion euros in artificial intelligence (AI) infrastructure in France, in a project that will be developed until 2030. The initiative, presented at the AI Action Summit in Paris, aims to strengthen the country’s role as a key hub in the development of AI in Europe.
A strategic boost backed by the French government
The President of France, Emmanuel Macron, emphasized the importance of this investment to keep France competitive in the AI race against giants like the United States and China. “Brookfield’s investment, particularly through Data4, will allow France to remain a relevant player in the AI sector. We have the knowledge, talent, and decarbonized energy needed to progress. We cannot slow down; the world is accelerating, and this is a battle for independence,” stated the president.
The plan includes allocating 15 billion euros to the construction of data centers, led by Data4, one of the largest developers of such infrastructures in Europe. The company, based in Paris, already has a project underway to reach 500 MW of capacity in data centers across different regions of the country, with the goal of tripling that figure by 2030.
Additionally, Brookfield will allocate another 5 billion euros for infrastructure related to AI, including chip storage, data transmission networks, and energy generation.
France, a key market in European AI
Sikander Rashid, Brookfield’s director in Europe, stated that France has the potential to play a key role in the global development of artificial intelligence. “To achieve leadership in AI in Europe, it is essential to invest in the infrastructure that supports it, especially in data centers and associated technologies. Our 20 billion euros plan represents a decisive step for France to compete on the global stage,” Rashid indicated.
Brookfield is one of the largest investors in the global artificial intelligence value chain, with over 150 billion euros in investments in digital infrastructure, renewable energy, and semiconductor manufacturing. The company has forged strategic alliances with Microsoft in renewable energy investments exceeding 10 billion euros, and partnered with Intel in a 30 billion dollar collaboration for the construction of a semiconductor factory in Arizona.
Brookfield’s investments in France
Since its arrival in France in 2015, Brookfield has solidified its presence in the country with investments in digital infrastructure, logistics, renewable energy, real estate, and services for young professionals. In December 2024, the company opened an office in Paris to manage its projects in the country.
With this new investment, France positions itself as a reference in the development of artificial intelligence in Europe, attracting international investors and consolidating its role in the global technological competition.
Source: Brookfield