The Arctic’s naturally cold climate and abundant renewable energy sources offer enticing opportunities for the efficient and sustainable operation of data centres, which have seen a surge under the rapid development of AI technology.

As the world becomes increasingly digitalized and cloud-driven, we find ourselves at the dawn of an AI revolution. This rapid transformation is fuelling an ever-growing demand for infrastructure to host and process vast amounts of data. However, this expansion comes with significant ecological challenges, particularly due to the high energy consumption of data centres.

One promising solution lies in the Arctic, where cooler ambient temperatures and abundant renewable energy sources present an opportunity to mitigate the environmental impact of these high-energy facilities. Several companies are now exploring the potential of positioning data centres in this region, balancing sustainability with technological advancement.

The webinar delves into the complexities of this emerging trend, examining both the opportunities and challenges of establishing data centres in the Arctic’s remote and ecologically sensitive landscape. Beyond the environmental implications, we will also explore the economic prospects these developments may bring to Arctic communities. Be sure to join us therefore for a thought-provoking discussion on the evolving relationship between data infrastructure and clean energy in one of the world’s most sensitive environments.

Key Topics to Be Explored:

• The practical and ecological benefits of Arctic-located data centres.

• Balancing sustainability with the environmental and social impacts of Arctic industrialization.

• The potential economic opportunities for Arctic communities and their associated risks.

• The long-term implications of relying on the Arctic for global data needs.

Moderator

• ‍Arin Kaye: Research Lead, EPRI

Speakers

• ‍Bjørn Rønning: CEO, Norwegian Data Center Industry

• Dr.Alexandra Leeper: Co-founder, Hringvarmi

• Justine Vanhalst: Co-founder, Hringvarmi

• Albertina Eliasdottir: Director of the Association of Municipalities, Northeast Iceland (SSNE)

• Alexandra Middleton: Postdoctoral Researcher and Fulbright Arctic Initiative Scholar 2024-2026

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