SoftBank to Invest €75 Billion in AI Data Centres in France
SoftBank to invest €75 billion in 5GW AI data centres in France

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SoftBank Group Corp. plans to invest up to €75 billion (approximately $87 billion) to develop 5 gigawatts of AI data centre capacity in France, with an initial investment of €45 billion for 3.1 GW in the Hauts-de-France region by 2031. This initiative aims to position France as a key AI infrastructure hub in Europe.
- 01The investment will be executed in phases, starting with €45 billion for 3.1 GW of capacity.
- 02Data centres will be established in Dunkirk, Bosquel, and Bouchain, with plans for additional sites.
- 03SoftBank's investment highlights France's potential as a leading AI hub in Europe, supported by its industrial capabilities.
- 04Partnerships with French companies like EDF and Schneider Electric will be integral to the project.
- 05The initiative is expected to bolster France's digital infrastructure and support technological sovereignty.
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SoftBank Group Corp. has unveiled plans to invest up to €75 billion (around $87 billion) to establish 5 gigawatts (GW) of artificial intelligence (AI) data centre capacity in France. This announcement was made at the 2026 Choose France summit by French President Emmanuel Macron. The first phase will involve an initial investment of €45 billion (approximately $52.2 billion) to construct 3.1 GW of capacity in the Hauts-de-France region by 2031. The project aims to cater to the rising demand for advanced computing infrastructure among AI companies and cloud service providers. Planned data centre locations include Dunkirk, Bosquel, and Bouchain, with further sites expected to be developed across the country. SoftBank's CEO Masayoshi Son emphasized the significance of this investment in shaping the future of technology, while French Minister Roland Lescure noted its importance for France's ambitions in the AI sector. Collaborations with local firms such as EDF and Schneider Electric will enhance the project's execution, reinforcing France's position as a pivotal player in AI infrastructure.
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The investment is expected to significantly enhance France's AI infrastructure, creating jobs and fostering technological innovation.
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