Ravenscraig Could Become a Major Green AI Data Centre in £3.9bn Development Plan
The former Ravenscraig steelworks site in Scotland may soon be transformed into one of the UK's largest green AI data centres under an ambitious £3.9 billion proposal. This plan, put forward by renewable energy developer Apatura, aims to harness the area's existing infrastructure and energy resources to create a cutting-edge facility that integrates AI technologies with battery storage and renewable energy.
A Boon for Local Economy and Jobs
The proposed data centre is expected to bring significant economic benefits to the region. Apatura estimates that the development will create 2,400 jobs, with 1,044 permanent roles based in North Lanarkshire. Additionally, around 440 jobs will be on-site. The socio-economic study predicts the data centre could contribute an extra 0.4% to Scotland's GDP once operational, further solidifying the region's role in the burgeoning AI and green energy sectors.
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Government Support and Future Vision for Scotland
The proposal is currently under consideration by the UK government for support through its AI Growth Zone initiative. This initiative aims to identify the best sites for AI development across the UK, and the Ravenscraig site, with its proximity to Scotland’s strengths in green energy and AI, fits the bill perfectly. Apatura’s CEO, Giles Hanglin, highlighted that this project aligns with Scotland’s goals of becoming a powerhouse of green, AI-enabled infrastructure, with significant benefits at both the national and local levels.
The development of this green AI data centre promises to reduce grid congestion, lower consumer bills, and complement Scotland’s ongoing advancements in big data, research, and education. This plan reflects a broader vision to repurpose the Ravenscraig site, which has previously served as a mass vaccination centre during the pandemic, into a sustainable hub for the future.
