Establishing a data centre in the Nordics: From Site Selection to Grid Connection

Without Power, Nothing Moves

Data centres have become critical infrastructure for the digital economy, powering cloud services, AI, industrial digitalisation and connected societies. As demand for digital services grows, so does the need for data centre capacity and the electricity required to support it.

Today, access to power is often the defining factor in data centre development. Grid capacity, connection timelines and the ability to secure sufficient electricity for future growth can determine whether a project moves forward. Securing grid capacity is often a race against time, making speed from site selection to grid connection a critical success factor.

Successful projects require more than a suitable location. Developers need to secure power, manage permitting processes, engage stakeholders and build a long-term energy strategy that supports both growth and sustainability. Addressing these factors early can reduce risk, accelerate development and create a strong foundation for future expansion.

What will you learn from the e-book?

• Why the Nordic region has emerged as one of the world’s most compelling locations for data centre investment.
• Why site selection should start with power, not the building.
• The key permitting stages and their typical timelines, from land use and zoning to environmental assessments and building permits.
• How to assess grid capacity and how a data centre connects to the grid, from connection enquiry to construction and commissioning.
• How data centres can move from power consumer to active energy and community partner.
• How Fortum’s shovel-readiness concept supports 2 years faster market entry.