With a surface area of 41,500 m², the largest “digital factory” in France will be built by next year in Dugny (Seine-Saint-Denis), thus dethroning the data center in La Courneuve. Its construction, the total cost of which is estimated at 2 billion euros, is expected to begin in the summer of 2025, over a period of three to four years.
This immense data center will be built on a ten-hectare former military site, on the edge of Le Bourget airport and almost 7 km from Paris. Meanwhile, the public inquiry into the project will conclude this Friday, 15 November.
Interview with Dr. Alice Laurent, Data Infrastructure Expert
Time.news Editor: Thank you for joining us today, Dr. Laurent. With the upcoming construction of France’s largest digital factory in Dugny, can you tell us what this means for the data center industry in France and Europe as a whole?
Dr. Alice Laurent: Thank you for having me. The establishment of this state-of-the-art data center, with a massive surface area of 41,500 m², signifies a pivotal moment for the digital infrastructure in France. It’s essential for accommodating the ever-growing demand for data storage and processing, particularly given the rise of cloud computing and big data analytics. By dethroning the existing facility in La Courneuve, this new digital factory will bolster our national capabilities in managing vast amounts of information efficiently.
Time.news Editor: The project is estimated to cost around 2 billion euros and will be constructed on a former military site. How important is the site selection for such a large-scale data center?
Dr. Alice Laurent: Site selection is critical for several reasons. A location near Le Bourget airport, and within 7 km of Paris, offers excellent connectivity for businesses requiring rapid data transfer. Additionally, utilizing a former military site can be beneficial in terms of infrastructure already in place, although it often requires extensive retrofitting. Factors like energy accessibility and environmental impact assessments also come into play, emphasizing the importance of strategic planning in these developments.
Time.news Editor: The construction is set to begin in the summer of 2025 and will take about three to four years to complete. What implications does this timeline have for the industry?
Dr. Alice Laurent: The timeline suggests a deliberate approach to construction, which is vital in ensuring compliance with environmental standards and securing the necessary approvals. As the public inquiry concludes this Friday, the engagement of stakeholders will be crucial. Meanwhile, the industry must adapt to these developments, possibly experiencing a shift in demand or reinvestment trends while we await the new capacity. It’s also an opportunity for innovations in data center management and sustainable practices.
Time.news Editor: Speaking of sustainability, how can data centers address environmental concerns, especially given the concerns around energy consumption and carbon emissions?
Dr. Alice Laurent: That’s an excellent question. As digital factories expand, they must adopt green technologies, such as advanced cooling systems and renewable energy sources, to mitigate their environmental footprint. Incorporating energy-efficient designs and seeking certifications like LEED can also play a pivotal role in promoting sustainability. This allows businesses to not only comply with regulatory standards but also appeal to environmentally conscious consumers, which is increasingly becoming a critical marketing point.
Time.news Editor: For businesses looking to utilize these data centers in the future, what practical advice can you offer?
Dr. Alice Laurent: Businesses should start by assessing their own data needs and future growth projections. They should also consider the flexibility offered by these new digital factories, ensuring that their chosen data center can scale with their operations. Engaging with the building management during the design phase can provide insights into sustainable practices and innovations that could benefit their operations. Lastly, staying informed about advancements in data management technologies will help businesses leverage the potential of these facilities strategically.
Time.news Editor: Thank you, Dr. Laurent, for your valuable insights into the future of data centers in France. It sounds like we are on the verge of significant developments in this sector!
Dr. Alice Laurent: It was my pleasure! The evolution of data centers is indeed an exciting area to watch, given its broad implications for technology and sustainability.