SoftBank Group has pledged a multi-billion-euro investment to build artificial-intelligence data center capacity in France [1].
The move signals a major shift in AI infrastructure development in Europe, as the Japanese conglomerate seeks to scale computing power using France's abundant nuclear-generated electricity and available land [1].
Reports on the total financial commitment vary. Reuters reported an investment of €45 billion [1] over five years. However, SoftBank founder Masayoshi Son cited a higher total in an interview, stating the project would involve €75 billion [2].
"This will be the largest investment in Europe in infrastructure related to artificial intelligence: 75 billion euros in total," Son said [2].
The project aims to establish a total AI data-center capacity of five GW [3]. The initial phase of the development is expected to provide 3.1 GW [3] and is targeted for completion by 2031 [4].
SoftBank intends to focus its initial efforts on the northern region of France [1]. The company is leveraging the country's energy profile to support the high power demands of large-scale AI models.
Son expressed support for the French government's approach to technology growth. "I’m impressed by President Macron’s commitment," Son said [4].
"We will spend 75 billion euros on AI centres in France," Son said [2].
“This will be the largest investment in Europe in infrastructure related to artificial intelligence.”
This investment highlights a growing trend of AI infrastructure shifting toward regions with stable, low-carbon energy sources. By utilizing France's nuclear power grid, SoftBank is attempting to mitigate the massive energy costs and environmental impact associated with generative AI. If realized, the five GW capacity would significantly increase Europe's sovereign AI capabilities, reducing reliance on U.S.-based cloud providers.
