Google opens a new data center in Waltham Cross, part of its £5 billion investment to fuel the UK’s AI economy, create jobs, and enhance clean energy solutions.
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| Google opens its latest data centre in Waltham Cross, marking the beginning of a £5 billion investment in AI services and clean energy, poised to create thousands of jobs. Image: CH |
Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire, UK — September 16, 2025:
Google has officially opened a state-of-the-art data centre in Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire, as part of a monumental £5 billion investment aimed at driving the UK's AI economy and supporting future technological innovations. The facility, inaugurated today by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, will play a pivotal role in powering a range of AI-driven services including Google Cloud, Workspace, Search, and Maps for millions of users across the UK, according to a press release.
This investment underscores Google’s commitment to bolstering the UK’s position as a global leader in artificial intelligence, infrastructure, and clean energy. The new Waltham Cross data centre is central to Google’s ambitious plans to scale up its AI-powered services, benefiting businesses, governments, and individuals across the country.
In her remarks, Chancellor Rachel Reeves hailed Google’s investment as a "vote of confidence" in the UK economy, emphasizing the significance of this move for job creation, economic growth, and the future of AI in Britain. The investment is set to generate over 8,250 jobs annually, with additional opportunities in AI research, cybersecurity, and energy solutions.
Reeves also highlighted that the UK government is focusing on reversing years of underinvestment, aiming to boost the country’s AI economy and foster future-ready skills. “Through our Plan for Change, we are laying the foundations for an economy that works for working people,” she said.
Ruth Porat, President and Chief Investment Officer at Alphabet and Google, added, “Google’s investment in infrastructure, energy capacity, and job-ready AI skills will position the UK at the forefront of global technological opportunities."
As part of its broader commitment to sustainability, Google has incorporated advanced energy-efficient technologies into the new data centre. The facility boasts cutting-edge air-cooling systems that minimize water consumption and is equipped for off-site heat recovery, allowing excess heat to be redirected to local communities to warm homes, schools, and businesses.
Additionally, Google has entered a landmark agreement with Shell Energy Europe to manage its carbon-free energy portfolio in the UK, marking a major step towards energy resilience and contributing to the UK’s energy transition. Together, Google and Shell are working to ensure that Google’s UK operations will run on 95% carbon-free energy by 2026.
Beyond infrastructure, Google is also investing in the future workforce by providing AI skills training across the UK. The company has already trained over one million people in the past decade and is part of a broader industry initiative to help 7.5 million people gain AI and job-ready skills by 2030.
Locally, Google has pledged to invest in community-based projects in Hertfordshire, particularly through a Community Fund managed by Broxbourne Council. This fund will support local economic development and help people gain the skills needed to succeed in the AI-driven economy. Google is also supporting local charities and social enterprises focused on skills training and employment services.
Councilor Corina Gander, Leader of Broxbourne Council, expressed her excitement about the positive impact of the new data centre on the local economy, stating, “Google is making a significant contribution to Broxbourne and the wider region, and we are proud to partner with them to maximize the benefits for the community.”
With the opening of its Waltham Cross data centre, Google has not only strengthened its infrastructure in the UK but has also reinforced its long-term commitment to AI innovation and sustainable development. The company’s £5 billion investment is set to position the UK as a global hub for AI research and development, offering exciting career opportunities for millions and furthering the country’s digital transformation.
By investing in both technological infrastructure and local communities, Google is helping the UK lead the way in the AI revolution, ensuring that the nation is equipped to thrive in the rapidly evolving digital landscape.