Google Opens New Waltham Cross Data Center as Part of £5 Billion UK AI Investment

Google has opened a new data center in Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire, as part of a two-year, £5 billion investment to strengthen the UK’s position in the global AI economy. The facility, officially launched by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, marks a major step in Google’s long-term commitment to expanding its infrastructure and technological leadership in the country. The investment includes capital expenditure, research and development, and engineering efforts across the UK, with a strong focus on advancing AI innovation. It also integrates Google DeepMind’s groundbreaking work in AI applications for science, healthcare, and beyond, further cementing the UK’s role as a hub for cutting-edge AI research. The new data center is designed to meet the rising demand for AI-powered services such as Google Cloud, Search, and Maps, while supporting the creation of an estimated 8,250 new jobs annually in the UK. These roles will span engineering, data science, sustainability, and operations, helping to build a robust and skilled AI workforce. Google is expanding its infrastructure responsibly, having signed a strategic agreement with Shell to manage its UK carbon-free energy portfolio. This partnership includes deploying Shell’s advanced battery technology to store surplus renewable energy and feed it back into the national grid during peak demand, enhancing the country’s energy resilience and supporting a cleaner, more sustainable future. With this milestone, Google continues to deepen its roots in the UK, driving technological progress and unlocking transformative opportunities for businesses and communities across the nation. The Waltham Cross data center stands as a testament to the company’s dedication to powering the UK’s AI ambitions through innovation, sustainability, and long-term investment.