Data Centre Boom: catalysts and constraints

Europe is experiencing a rush of investment into data centres as artificial intelligence, cloud computing and digital services drive a new wave of electricity demand.From Finland to Spain, developers are searching for locations with abundant clean power, available grid connections and supportive policy frameworks. But as data centres grow larger and more power-hungry, questions are emerging about whether Europe's electricity infrastructure can keep pace.Grid operators are facing mounting connection queues, policymakers are weighing economic benefits against environmental concerns, and system planners are grappling with how to integrate large new sources of demand without compromising reliability.Could data centres become a catalyst for investment in grids, renewables and flexibility? Or do they risk adding further pressure to already constrained electricity systems?In this episode, Richard Sverrisson is joined by Janne Peljo of Finnish Industries, Elisabeth Cremona of Ember and Liam Newcombe of GreenScale to discuss the future of data centres in Europe, the impact of AI-driven demand growth, grid investment requirements, system stability, and the policy choices that will determine whether Europe can successfully power its digital future.#DataCentres #AI #EnergyTransition #ElectricityMarkets #PowerGrids #EnergySecurity #GridInfrastructure #CleanEnergy #RenewableEnergy #DigitalInfrastructure #ArtificialIntelligence #Electrification #EnergyPolicy #PowerMarkets #EuropeEnergyHost: Richard Sverrisson – Editor-in-Chief, Montel NewsGuests:Janne Peljo – Chief Policy Adviser on Climate and Biodiversity, Finnish IndustriesElisabeth Cremona – Senior Energy Analyst, Europe, EmberLiam Newcombe – SVP Product, Energy Strategy & Innovation at GreenScaleAlina Trabattoni – Italy Correspondant, MontelEditor: Alexandra CarlonProducer: Alexandra Carlon