In a landmark move for European AI infrastructure, Nscale Global Holdings, Aker ASA, and OpenAI have unveiled Stargate Norway: a major new gigafactory project in Narvik, Northern Norway. This initiative marks OpenAI’s first European data center, designed to deliver 100,000 NVIDIA GPUs by end‑2026 and powered entirely by renewable energy.
Key Highlights
Location: Kvandal near Narvik, chosen for its access to abundant hydropower, cool climate, and industrial infrastructure.
Capacity: Initial 230 MW build-out, with expansion potential up to 520 MW and long-term scalability.
Infrastructure: Closed-loop, direct-to-chip liquid cooling; surplus GPU heat to be reused by local low-carbon enterprises.
Governance: 50/50 joint venture between Nscale and Aker, supported with ~$1 billion initial capital including $250 million equity from each partner.
Digital Sovereignty: Aligns with OpenAI's "OpenAI for Countries" initiative and Europe's push for regional AI control.
Energy Advantage: Narvik offers electricity prices well below the European average—ideal for compute-intensive AI workloads.
Regional Impact: The facility is expected to drive long-term economic development in Northern Norway via partnerships with universities, job creation, and local business growth.
LEED-worthy Design: By using clean energy and innovative cooling, the project sets a benchmark for green AI infrastructure.
What This Means for the Industry
Scalable Sovereign AI
Stargate Norway illustrates how regional compute hubs can meet local demand while supporting European digital resilience.
Sustainable Innovation
Renewable-powered AI, heat reuse, and cooling efficiencies demonstrate how data centers can lead ecological transitions.
Nordic Leadership:
Norway is emerging as a preferred location for large-scale AI infrastructure—with global relevance. As Europe accelerates toward data center expansion and AI adoption, Stargate Norway may become the blueprint for sustainable, sovereign, large‑scale compute. Stay tuned for future updates as the project moves from concept to construction—and as Norway redefines digital infrastructure on the global stage.
Video of the announcement with remarks from Nscale’s CEO, Josh Payne as well as Sam Altman, Øyvind Eriksen and Jensen Huang: https://qcnl.tv/p/ibfrFnPcQraFxwbZSpXzVQ
