Wedoany.com Report-Jun 25, Google is exploring the establishment of its first data centre in France, with Châteauroux, a city in central France, as the primary candidate. Local authorities have identified a 200-hectare site in the industrial zone east of Châteauroux for the proposed facility.

The tech company, through its French subsidiary Tricolore Computing, is close to finalizing a deal to acquire approximately 195 hectares of land for an estimated €58.5 million. Gil Avérous, mayor of Châteauroux and president of the metropolitan area, stated: “This is a very strong sign of interest from Google.” The agreement awaits final approval from the local community council, which will vote on the land transfer.

Before proceeding, Google will conduct detailed feasibility studies to evaluate the site’s technical viability, environmental impact, and economic benefits. These assessments will ensure the project aligns with local regulations and sustainability goals.

This initiative follows Google’s recent investment in the United Kingdom, where it began constructing a $1 billion data centre in Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire, in January 2024. That facility, built on a 33-acre site purchased in 2020, emphasizes sustainable practices, operating on carbon-free energy 24/7 through a power purchase agreement with ENGIE for electricity from Scotland’s Moray West offshore wind farm. It also incorporates air-based cooling systems and infrastructure designed for future heat recovery and reuse.

The Châteauroux project marks a significant step for Google’s expansion in Europe, aiming to enhance its infrastructure while addressing environmental considerations. The outcome of the council’s vote and the results of the feasibility studies will determine the next steps for the proposed data centre in France.