Microsoft drives sustainable development with its Data Centers in Spain.

Microsoft has taken a significant step in the expansion and sustainability of its technological infrastructure in Spain. The company’s data centers in the Iberian country not only provide the necessary physical infrastructure for countless applications and services but also generate employment, contribute to the local economy, and promote responsible environmental practices.

Critical Infrastructure and Local Employment

Microsoft’s data centers in Spain house thousands of servers and storage devices connected to the internet, similar in size and appearance to distribution warehouses. These facilities, essential for the daily operation of mobile applications, emails, video calls, online shopping, and more, currently employ 37 people. During the peak of construction, it is estimated that over 1,471 jobs will be created, and approximately 6 million hours of work will be invested. By 2026, Microsoft projects that 106 employees and contractors will work at these facilities.

Job Opportunities and Training

The construction and operation of data centers generate a wide range of jobs, from campus management, IT operations, to mechanical and electrical engineers. Additionally, construction projects include jobs for electricians, plumbers, carpenters, and other construction workers.

Microsoft has also invested in training programs for the community, such as the “Digital Skills to Improve Employability” project in northern Madrid, which offers technical training to unemployed youth through Microsoft certifications.

Economic and Fiscal Contribution

Data centers represent a capital-intensive investment and a long-term commitment to the community. This investment increases the commercial tax base, providing revenue for municipal services, education, and more. Taxes derived from operations and construction, such as VAT and income tax from workers, also significantly contribute to local, regional, and national coffers.

Commitment to Sustainability

Microsoft has implemented several initiatives to ensure that its data centers in Spain operate sustainably. The company is committed to achieving 100% renewable energy coverage by 2025, and in Spain, the backup generators of the data centers will use renewable biofuel to reduce carbon emissions. Additionally, data centers in Spain are certified with the LEED Gold standard, ensuring their efficiency and sustainability.

Water and Waste Management

The facilities in Spain use direct evaporative cooling systems, which require water only 15% of the year and do not use chemicals for water treatment. The water used in the cooling systems is returned to the local wastewater treatment plant following local regulations.

In terms of waste management, Microsoft reuses or recycles over 90% of assets at the end of their life cycle and is researching new recycling solutions to improve efficiency and further reduce waste.

Reforestation Initiatives

As part of a reforestation effort in Spain, Microsoft and the Repsol Foundation are restoring an abandoned agricultural area in Torremocha de Jarama, north of Madrid. This project has started with the planting of over 11,340 trees in an area of over 18 hectares.

Sustainable Future

At a global level, Microsoft has set ambitious sustainability goals, such as becoming carbon negative by 2030 and eliminating all carbon emitted since its foundation in 1975 by 2050. The company has also committed to being positive in water use and achieving zero waste certification by 2030.

In summary, Microsoft’s data centers in Spain are an example of how technology and sustainability can go hand in hand, providing significant economic and environmental benefits to local communities.

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