Denmark is set to host a major new hyperscale data center that will be fully Danish-owned and operated, a milestone in the country’s digital infrastructure development. Slated to begin operations in 2026, the facility marks a significant step in establishing national control over a sector that has often relied on foreign ownership.

The project, backed by real estate investment group Thylander and developed in partnership with Copenhagen Infrastructure Partners, will ultimately scale to a capacity of 200 megawatts, placing it among the largest data centers in the country.

Initial construction will deliver a capacity of 10 to 20 megawatts, with future phases expanding significantly. The project aims to respond to rising demand for large-scale data processing and storage, driven by advances in cloud computing, artificial intelligence, and enterprise digitalization. Industry leaders in Denmark are welcoming the initiative as a sign of maturity in the local data center ecosystem, which has reached a level where Danish-owned hyperscale facilities are now feasible and competitive.

The strategic location of Esbjerg was chosen for its strong fiber connectivity and reliable access to renewable energy. Situated on the west coast, Esbjerg offers direct fiber routes to mainland Europe, minimizing risks associated with undersea cable damage and ensuring resilient international connectivity. These technical advantages were a key factor in the site selection and support the facility’s ambitions to become a key node in Denmark’s growing digital economy.

Thylander’s CEO, Bjarke Mikkelsen – known for previously leading the e-commerce platform Daraz – has emphasized that the new facility will focus not only on digital capabilities but also on sustainability and energy efficiency. Planned features include the use of renewable power sources and waste heat recovery systems that will feed into the district heating network, aligning with broader national climate goals.

Local stakeholders have expressed strong support for the development. The Confederation of Danish Industry has endorsed the project, citing both its contribution to digital capacity and its potential economic impact. Esbjerg Municipality, recently named Data Center Municipality of the Year by the Danish Data Center Industry (DDI) Awards, has positioned itself as a digital hub through targeted infrastructure investments and regional cooperation.

Anders Frich Mathiesen, chair of the Data Center Industry and head of Thylander’s data center division, noted that the location satisfies critical infrastructure requirements while reinforcing Denmark’s sovereignty over its digital assets. This sentiment aligns with broader governmental support. Caroline Stage, Denmark’s Minister of Digitalization, has welcomed the project as a vital component of the country’s ability to remain competitive in an AI-driven global landscape.

The project would reflect a broader ambition to establish Denmark not only as a hub for sustainable technology but also as a leader in digital sovereignty and innovation. As demands for secure, high-performance computing infrastructure continue to rise, this development might signal a new era in how the country plans, owns, and operates its digital backbone.

Similar Posts