Amazon Web Services (AWS) has announced a €15.7 billion investment in Aragon, Spain, marking the largest investment in the region's history and one of the most significant in Europe. This ambitious project will expand AWS's existing three data centres in Huesca and Zaragoza and establish a fourth in Zaragoza's capital.
The investment is projected to create 6,800 jobs and significantly boost Aragon's GDP. It represents a sixfold increase from AWS's initial commitment to the region and solidifies Aragon's position as a leading technological hub in Spain and Europe.
Key factors in attracting this massive investment include Aragon's abundant land and renewable energy resources, along with the government's commitment to streamlining administrative processes for large tech companies. The regional government has already declared the project of regional interest, expediting permits and reducing approval times.
AWS's data centres in Aragon are powered entirely by renewable energy, aligning with the region's focus on sustainability. Furthermore, the company has pledged to return the water it consumes to the network, addressing concerns about water scarcity in the region.
The investment also highlights the importance of digital talent. AWS plans to collaborate with Aragonese universities to nurture local talent and bridge the skills gap in the technology sector. The government is also committed to expanding educational opportunities in high-demand fields.
This monumental investment aligns with Aragon's vision of becoming a technological powerhouse, similar to the impact of the automotive industry in the past. The regional government aims to establish Aragon as a leader in the cloud computing sector and a driving force in southern Europe's technology landscape.
Spanish Minister of Digital Transformation, José Luis Escrivá, welcomed the investment, emphasising its significance in positioning Spain as a key digital hub in southern Europe. He also highlighted the investment's potential to propel the country to the forefront of technological innovation and artificial intelligence in Europe.
