Google to invest USD1.2B in Germany cloud computing program

BERLIN (AP) — Google said yesterday it is investing USD1.2 billion by 2030 to expand its cloud computing infrastructure in Germany and to increase the use of renewable energy.

The Internet giant said it plans to add new cloud computing centres in the Berlin region and in the town of Hanau, close to the DE-CIX data exchange in Frankfurt.

Google said it would purchase more than 140 megawatts of electricity from the German subsidiary of French utility company Engie over the coming years to operate the data centres.

The company said Engie will guarantee that 80 per cent of the electricity comes from carbon-free sources, including a new solar park and 22 existing wind parks in Germany. Google said it aims to use 100 per cent renewable energy by 2030.

Germany’s Economy Minister Peter Altmaier called the announcement a “strong signal” for green energy and digital infrastructure.

Exhibitors work on laptop computers in front of an illuminated Google logo at the industrial fair Hannover Messe in Germany. PHOTO: AP