Kenya has entered into a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) with the United Arab Emirates (UAE) to collaborate on the development of the first-ever data center powered by geothermal energy. The agreement, signed between Kenya’s EcoCloud and UAE’s G42, aims to harness Kenya’s vast untapped geothermal potential for the project’s initial 100MW facility, with plans for further scaling in the future. The initiative is expected to contribute to Kenya’s position as a global digital hub and aligns with the nation’s commitment to sustainability and innovation.
EcoCloud, a leading data center solutions provider, and G42, a global leader in artificial intelligence, envision the 1GW mega data center facility reducing Kenya’s reliance on fossil fuels, cutting carbon emissions, and fostering environmental conservation. The partnership emphasizes the importance of leveraging geothermal energy to not only meet the region’s data needs but also establish a new standard for eco-friendly infrastructure. The collaboration is seen as a significant step towards a greener and more sustainable future for Africa and beyond.
Amos Siwoi, CEO of EcoCloud, highlighted the milestone, stating that the geothermal-powered data center represents a crucial advancement in realizing Kenya’s potential as a global digital hub. The project underscores the commitment to making intelligence accessible while setting a precedent for sustainable infrastructure. The development comes amid increased scrutiny of data centers’ environmental impact, and this initiative aims to address concerns by relying on geothermal energy, a renewable and eco-friendly power source.
Kenya’s President William Ruto expressed optimism about the collaboration, stating that the geothermal-powered data center would catalyze Kenya’s emergence as a global digital hub. He emphasized the establishment of a new benchmark for eco-friendly infrastructure, positioning Kenya as a leader in sustainable industrialization. The project aligns with global efforts to make data centers more environmentally friendly, marking a noteworthy achievement in the pursuit of green and sustainable technology solutions.
