The announcement that Google plans to establish a data center in Torsboda is a milestone for Västernorrland and a testament to the region’s appeal to international investors.
This new venture represents not only a significant investment and the creation of new jobs, but also opens up new opportunities for innovation, skills development, and long-term growth in the region.
“This is a historic announcement for Västernorrland. The fact that one of the world’s most influential technology companies has chosen to invest here reinforces the region’s image as an attractive location for the industry of the future, digitalization, and AI development,” says Magnus Viström, Business Area Manager for High Coast Invest at BizMaker.
In addition to the data center, which is expected to create at least 500 direct jobs once it is fully operational, Google plans to invest 924 million kronor in various community initiatives. At the same time, efforts focused on innovation, education, and community development will be launched in collaboration with municipalities, academia, and regional development organizations.
Before the deal can be finalized, decisions must be made by the municipal councils in Sundsvall and Timrå. In addition, several permits and reviews must be completed, including those related to the environment, building permits, energy supply, and the Inspectorate for Strategic Products. If all decisions are made as planned, the goal is to finalize the deal this fall.
“We view the opportunities created by today’s announcement for collaboration between the business community, academia, and the region’s innovation stakeholders very positively. This will further strengthen our long-term commitment to research, innovation, and entrepreneurship in AI and tech, while also increasing the region’s appeal for future investments,” says Magnus Viström.
In recent years, Västernorrland has strengthened its position in sustainable industrial investments through access to fossil-free energy, competitive business conditions, and a growing innovation ecosystem.
“We already have strong momentum in the region, with investments in areas such as data centers, tourism, food tech, hydrogen, and e-fuels. Google’s planned expansion will be another piece of the puzzle that builds on our ecosystem and creates new opportunities for companies to grow and establish themselves here,” says Magnus Viström.
CONTACT
Magnus Viström, Business Area Manager for High Coast Invest at BizMaker,
076-762-05-74, magnus.vistrom@highcoastinvest.com
