OpenAI Builds 230MW AI Hub in Norway: 100,000 GPUs by late 2027

• OpenAI's announcement of a 230MW renewable-powered data center in Northern Norway.
• Hosting 100,000 NVIDIA GPUs to drive AI development in Europe.

On July 31, 2024, Reuters reported that OpenAI is set to construct Stargate Norway, a state-of-the-art AI-centric data center in Kvandal, outside Narvik in Northern Norway. The project, a collaboration with Nscale Global Holdings Ltd. and Norwegian conglomerate Aker ASA, marks OpenAI's first major infrastructure investment in Europe. This initiative underlines Norway’s rising prominence as a hub for cutting-edge digital technologies while advancing Europe’s digital sovereignty goals.

Stargate Norway will launch with an initial 230MW capacity and is designed to scale up to 520MW. The facility will integrate 100,000 NVIDIA GPUs by late 2027. It will also employ closed-loop liquid cooling technology for maximum energy efficiency. Powered entirely by Norway’s abundant hydropower resources, the center combines performance and sustainability at an unprecedented scale for AI infrastructure in the region.

Nscale Global Holdings and Aker ASA will split ownership equally through a 50/50 joint venture. Nscale CEO Josh Payne hailed the project as a "strategic milestone for the region," while OpenAI CEO Sam Altman highlighted its potential to enable both AI breakthroughs and economic growth in Europe.

Support from the Norwegian government was pivotal in bringing this initiative to fruition. The country implemented progressive regulations to ensure sustainable energy use. These include a temporary ban on new crypto mining data centers to manage electricity resources. Meanwhile, with its stable climate and low-cost renewable power, Norway remains a leading destination for green data center investments. Projections show these investments will reach $2.15 billion this year.

The launch of Stargate Norway aligns with the European Union (EU)'s mission to strengthen AI capabilities and achieve digital sovereignty. OpenAI revealed that the project is part of its 'OpenAI for Countries' program. This program prioritizes access to computing resources for local startups and researchers. Accordingly, OpenAI will distribute surplus computational power from Stargate Norway to public and private entities across the UK, Nordics, and broader Europe, ensuring broader regional benefits.

In addition to its AI infrastructure goals, Stargate Norway is poised to drive regional economic development and foster technological advancements. The facility is projected to generate 1,200 direct jobs and will collaborate with local universities to promote AI research. Moreover, the facility will repurpose waste heat from GPU operations to support nearby low-carbon enterprises, demonstrating innovative approaches to sustainability.