The text on this page was automatically translated and hence may differ from the original. No rights can be derived from this translation.
What is the value of data centres from a regional perspective? That is the question posed by the province of Flevoland to PB7 and Dialogic. While it is widely acknowledged that data centres play a crucial role in the Dutch and international digital infrastructure, what added value and employment opportunities do they bring to their immediate surroundings? And do they generate further benefits in terms of spin-off or clustering effects towards other sectors and societal developments?
Within this economic impact study, we have, based on three scenarios, illustrated how the direct, indirect, and induced expenditures and jobs have a regional impact in the province of Flevoland. Additionally, we have explored whether and how data centres can contribute towards the future for regionally strong sectors and some socially relevant developments.
A brief summary of the findings:
- The importance of data centres extends beyond the province, but the challenges regarding integration and power supply are local. It represents a classic prisoner’s dilemma.
- The regional economic impact of the mid-scenario amounts to EUR 0.5 billion and over 1,350 FTEs annually.
- Data centres can be effectively managed in terms of sustainability and their contribution to technical education.
- With additional policies, especially more ICT companies can be attracted, leading to opportunities in sustainability as well.
The province of Flevoland will now integrate our insights with explorations on spatial integration, energy consumption, water use, and the potential for residual heat, to develop a well-founded data centre strategy and policy framework.
Curious about the detailed findings? Check out the report here or contact Menno Driesse for more information.