Google Opens £5 Billion Waltham Cross Data Centre to Power UK’s AI Economy

Google has officially opened its new data centre in Waltham Cross, Hertfordshire, marking the beginning of a two-year £5 billion investment in the UK. Opened by Chancellor Rachel Reeves, the centre is set to accelerate the nation’s AI economy, create thousands of jobs, and reinforce the UK’s position as a global technology hub.

Driving the UK’s AI Economy

The investment spans Google’s capital expenditure, R&D, and engineering initiatives, including Google DeepMind’s pioneering research. By 2030, AI is projected to add £400 billion to the UK economy, with Google’s initiatives central to this growth. Chancellor Reeves called the move a “powerful vote of confidence in the UK economy”, underscoring the government’s push for tech-driven job creation and innovation.

Operational Details: Building Future-Ready Infrastructure

The Waltham Cross facility, constructed with contributions from over 250 companies (mostly local), will support Google Cloud, Workspace, Search, and Maps. It represents one of the company’s most advanced facilities, designed to deliver fast, reliable AI and cloud services while minimising environmental impact through air-cooling technology and heat recovery systems to support local communities.

Economic Impact: Jobs and Skills Development

Google’s £5 billion commitment is projected to generate 8,250 new jobs annually in UK businesses between 2026–2027. Beyond direct employment, Google is investing in job-ready AI skills training as part of its pledge to train 7.5 million people in AI by 2030. In Hertfordshire, a Community Fund managed by Broxbourne Council will support charities such as CHEXS, Hertfordshire Community Foundation, and SPACE Hertfordshire.

Strategic Significance: Energy and Sustainability

As part of its sustainability push, Google announced an agreement with Shell Energy Europe Limited to act as its 24/7 Carbon-Free Energy Manager in the UK. This partnership ensures grid stability through battery energy storage systems, advancing the nation’s clean energy transition. By 2026, Google projects its UK operations will run on 95% carbon-free energy, aligning with its global climate moonshot goal of net-zero emissions.