Microsoft is planning to invest over $7 billion (€6.6 billion) to build new data centers in the Aragon region of Spain. This investment is part of Microsoft’s broader strategy to expand its data infrastructure across the globe. Spain’s Minister for Digital Transformation, José Luis Escrivá, confirmed these investment plans in a statement released on Saturday.
The new data centres in Madrid are expected to significantly benefit Spain’s cloud and artificial intelligence sectors. Microsoft projects that this development will generate over 70,000 new jobs and contribute €10 billion to Spain’s GDP by 2030.
“Microsoft’s new data center region will provide cutting-edge, sustainable, and secure AI solutions for Spain and the rest of Europe,” stated Minister Escrivá. “It is a great satisfaction that Microsoft is once again betting on Spain for the deployment of state-of-the-art infrastructure and services, thus contributing to the positioning of our country at the forefront of digital transformation,” he added.
Advanced Cloud Services
The new cloud region in Spain, dubbed Spain Central, will offer some of the most advanced cloud computing services in Europe. These include productivity tools, data analytics, cybersecurity, computing and storage services through Azure, Microsoft 365, Dynamics 365, Power Platform, and generative artificial intelligence services. Additionally, Spanish enterprises will have the option of in-country data residency, ensuring highly accessible, scalable, and secure cloud services.
Commitment to Spain’s Digital Transformation by Microsoft
Alberto Granados, Country Manager for Microsoft Spain, emphasized the company’s commitment to supporting Spain’s digital transformation. “We are committed to supporting Spain by making investments, forging business partnerships, and creating programs that ensure broad access to cloud and AI services. These efforts will empower organizations and individuals to develop and use technology in ways that will serve the public good,” Granados stated.
Conclusion
This significant investment follows similar moves by Amazon Web Services (AWS) and Microsoft’s recent announcements of global data centre expansions. The competition in the cloud and AI infrastructure market is intensifying, with major tech companies vying for dominance in Europe and beyond.
By investing heavily in Spain, Microsoft aims to bolster its position in the European market and support the region’s growing demand for advanced digital services. This strategic move underscores the company’s commitment to driving digital innovation and economic growth in Spain and across Europe.
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