Polar Data Centers, a sustainable data center operator, has announced a new phase of its AI-focused data center development in Norway, centered on a site at Herøya Industrial Park in Porsgrunn, Telemark. The project will be named HER01 and is part of the company’s wider expansion of AI-ready infrastructure across the country and the facility will be built to Tier 3 standards and include liquid cooling systems designed for high-density AI compute environments.
According to a company press release, the site covers 39,000 m² and is prepared for construction which is located 130 km outside of Oslo, and is intended for large-scale deployment of AI and high-performance computing workloads. Initial planned capacity is around 40 MW, with power sourced entirely from renewable hydroelectric energy. The design targets a PUE of 1.12, using Norway’s low ambient temperatures and grid mix to improve efficiency.
Andy Hayes, CEO, Polar Data Centers, said, “Our Herøya development represents the next step of our expansion strategy in Norway, by continuing to invest in locations that combine renewable energy, strong connectivity, and favourable environmental conditions, we are building a platform that enables our customers to deploy AI infrastructure at scale, sustainably and efficiently.”
Paul Hicks, Acquisitions VP, Polar Data Centers, said, “The new site in Heroya is in a highly strategic location, with access to abundant sustainable power and a highly skilled local workforce. We look forward to working closely with the Kommune of Porsgrunn, Heroya Industrial Park and local businesses to deliver a world class facility.”
The project adds to the company’s existing Norwegian footprint and supports its broader plan to develop AI-ready data centers across Europe.