Google has officially launched its new data center in Waltham Cross (Hertfordshire), a key part of an ambitious £5 billion investment plan in the UK over the next two years. The project, inaugurated by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, aims to strengthen the country’s technological capacity, power its growing artificial intelligence economy, and accelerate the transition toward a more sustainable energy model.
A data center for the AI era
The new complex will support the increasing demand for Google’s AI-based services, such as Google Cloud, Workspace, Search, and Maps, used by millions of UK citizens, businesses, and public organizations. Over 250 companies, mostly local, contributed to its construction, reflecting the significant economic impact of the project.
According to Google, the investment is part of a broader package that includes capital expenditure, research and development, and associated engineering, with a particular focus on Google DeepMind, the UK-based lab leading advances in AI applied to science and health.
Economic impact and job creation
The investment plan is projected to generate 8,250 new annual AI-related jobs in UK companies. It will also promote the modernization of public services and create opportunities for startups and SMEs in the tech sector.
Ruth Porat, Chair and Chief Investment Officer of Alphabet and Google, emphasized:
“With this opening, we’re strengthening our roots in the UK and supporting its potential to add £400 billion to the economy by 2030, while also improving key social services.”
In turn, Chancellor Rachel Reeves stated that Google’s investment is a “powerful vote of confidence in the UK economy”, highlighting that it is a bet that will bring growth and quality jobs in the coming years.
Partnership with Shell for clean and resilient energy
A core pillar of this project is sustainability. Google has signed an agreement with Shell Energy Europe Limited to serve as its carbon-free 24/7 energy manager in the UK.
This agreement aims to ensure the stability of the UK’s power grid by utilizing battery energy storage systems (BESS) to compensate for the intermittency of renewable generation. The goal is for Google’s operations in the country to reach 95% renewable energy consumption by 2026.
The Waltham Cross center is also designed with advanced energy efficiency standards:
- Air cooling to minimize water usage.
- Preparation to recover and redistribute heat to local homes, schools, and businesses.
A legacy of innovation from London
Demis Hassabis, co-founder and CEO of Google DeepMind, recalled that London was chosen as the initial location for the AI laboratory because the UK has the talent and tradition needed to become a global innovation hub.
“From Lovelace to Turing, the UK has been at the forefront of technology. This center is a natural continuation of that history,” emphasized Hassabis.
Commitment to the local community
Beyond economic and energy benefits, Google announced the creation of a Hertfordshire Community Fund, managed by the Broxbourne Council, aimed at supporting economic development projects and social initiatives.
Among the beneficiary organizations are:
- CHEXS, which promotes skills in AI and STEAM for youth.
- Community Alliance Broxbourne & East Herts, which supports neighborhood associations and volunteer groups.
- Hertfordshire Community Foundation, collaborating with local NGOs.
- SPACE Hertfordshire, supporting families with neurodivergent youth.
Corina Gander, leader of the Broxbourne Council, stated:
“We’re thrilled that Google has chosen our district. They’ve demonstrated a real commitment to the community, supporting local projects and giving a significant boost to the regional economy.”
Google’s climate “moonshot”
The company affirms that its current data centers deliver six times more computing power per unit of electricity than five years ago. Additionally, it maintains a global climate goal of achieving net-zero emissions across all operations and value chains, deploying infrastructure under a 24/7 carbon-free energy model.
The company also commits to:
- Replenishing 120% of water consumed on average.
- Improving the health of watersheds where its campuses and data centers are located.
FAQs
1. Why did Google choose Waltham Cross for this data center?
Because of its strategic location near London, the availability of energy infrastructure, and the opportunity to integrate into the Southeast England tech ecosystem.
2. What will be the local employment impact?
It’s estimated that 8,250 jobs annually will be created across the UK, with a strong focus on AI and digital services, including direct hiring at the center and with local suppliers.
3. How will this center contribute to sustainability?
Thanks to the agreement with Shell and energy storage technologies, the center aims to operate with 95% renewable energy by 2026, and will utilize waste heat for community use.
4. Is this project linked to DeepMind?
Yes. The investment also boosts Google DeepMind’s work in London, one of the world’s most advanced AI labs, especially in science and healthcare.