Tech Giant Expands AI and Cloud Power in Wallonia
Google invests €5 billion to expand its data centres and AI infrastructure in Belgium. The company launches its largest Belgian project, creating 300 new jobs and boosting Wallonia’s data capacity. This investment ranks among the biggest technology commitments in Belgium’s history and strengthens Google’s influence in Europe’s digital landscape.
The company expands its Saint-Ghislain site in Wallonia to improve access to AI and cloud services across Europe. “With today’s announcement, Google deepens its presence in Belgium, broadens its investments, and advances AI-driven innovation,” said Bikash Koley, Google’s Vice President for Global Infrastructure.
Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever welcomed the investment. He said it reflects confidence in Belgium’s leadership in digital innovation and clean energy. “By growing advanced AI and cloud infrastructure, creating skilled employment, and supporting carbon-free energy, Belgium accelerates its energy transition and strengthens its digital future,” he stated.
The new facilities will operate on carbon-free energy and connect directly to Belgium’s renewable power grid, aligning with both national and EU 2030 climate goals.
Wallonia Rises as a European Innovation Hub
Wallonia embraces Google’s renewed investment, building on a partnership that began in 2009 with the first Belgian data centre in Saint-Ghislain. The region now becomes a focal point for Europe’s AI and cloud growth.
“The €5 billion investment confirms Wallonia’s leading role in European data processing and storage,” said Pierre-Yves Jeholet, Vice President of the Walloon Government. “It creates jobs, fuels innovation, strengthens infrastructure, and builds AI expertise. It also advances our region’s digital sovereignty and supports our next digital strategy.”
Local leaders voiced enthusiasm for the expansion. “This project energizes our innovation ecosystem and attracts new opportunities for other companies. As local officials, we will collaborate closely with the inter-city agency IDEA to ensure seamless integration,” said Florence Monier, Mayor of Saint-Ghislain.
Strengthening Security and Partnerships in the Digital Age
Defence and Foreign Trade Minister Theo Francken stressed the need to balance innovation with security. “Belgium values collaboration with global tech leaders like Google,” he said. “We build stronger cyber and data capabilities through cooperation while protecting our sovereignty and national interests.”
The investment deepens Google’s partnership with Belgian telecom operator Proximus, which co-develops sovereign cloud services with the company. “We welcome Google’s renewed commitment to Belgium,” said Fabrice De Windt, CEO of Proximus. “This strengthens our role as a driver of digital innovation in Europe and deepens our strategic alliance.”
Through this initiative, Google reinforces Belgium’s position at the heart of Europe’s sustainable digital growth — making Wallonia a cornerstone of carbon-free, AI-driven development.
