The tech landscape of Val-de-Marne, a department located south of Paris, is set to undergo a major transformation with two significant data center projects currently in the consultation phase.
Segro has proposed to construct a 13,800-square-meter data center at the Petits Carreaux business park in Bonneuil-sur-Marne. This development will feature a 70MW IT capacity, drawing its power from the main French grid. Notably, this project emphasizes sustainability, proposing to channel waste heat into district heating systems in Bonneuil or the nearby municipality of Sucy. Segro’s initiative promises to enhance the energy efficiency of the area while also demonstrating a commitment to green energy solutions.
The construction of this data center is projected to create up to 70 full-time jobs, boosting local employment opportunities. Furthermore, as this project is currently in the consultation phase, it provides residents the opportunity to voice their opinions and concerns. This engagement is crucial, ensuring that local communities are an integral part of the developmental process.
Icade plans to invest €280 million ($318 million) in the construction of a substantial hyperscale data center at the Paris Orly-Rungis business park. Spanning 65,000 square meters, this state-of-the-art facility will eventually boast an impressive IT capacity of 130MW. The data center is expected to leverage a heat recovery system that utilizes waste heat from the Rungis International Market, integrating advanced technology with sustainability principles. Icade’s ambitious project reflects its growing focus on the data center sector, further diversifying its portfolio, which historically centered on commercial and residential properties.
The construction of Icade’s data center is slated to begin in 2028, with the facility set to become operational by 2029/30. Notably, Icade currently operates five data centers at the Portes de Paris site, with renowned companies such as Digital Realty, Equinix, and Edvance as their lessees. Plans for a sixth data center leased to Equinix are also underway. This venture underscores Icade’s strategic push into the data center market, reinforcing its position as a key player in this rapidly growing industry.
In addition to the initiatives by Segro and Icade, the Goodman Group is converting the former Signify logistics center in Villeneuve-Saint-Georges into two separate data centers. Approved last year, these facilities will each feature 12 data halls, significantly boosting the area’s data infrastructure. By repurposing an existing site, the Goodman Group is contributing to the efficient use of space, meeting the growing demand for modern data center facilities in Val-de-Marne.
These projects form part of a broader trend in data center expansion across France, spurred by significant international investments following an AI summit held recently. Notable commitments include Brookfield’s €20 billion ($20.7 billion) investment in AI data centers over the next five years and a potential €50 billion ($51.6 billion) France-UAE project aiming to create a 1GW data center. Furthermore, G42 plans to establish an AI data center powered by AMD hardware in collaboration with DataOne. These international ventures underscore the importance of France as a burgeoning hub for data infrastructure, aligning domestic economic aspirations with global technological advancements.
The tech landscape of Val-de-Marne, a department just south of Paris, is poised for significant change with the advent of two major data center projects currently in the consultation phase. These promising initiatives, spearheaded by Segro and Icade, aim to invigorate the local economy, generate employment opportunities, and enhance sustainable energy practices. The projects underscore the growing relevance of data infrastructure in the region, reflecting a broader trend towards digital transformation. As part of the inclusive planning process, local residents are encouraged to offer their feedback and suggestions. This approach ensures community involvement and addresses potential concerns, fostering a collaborative environment for development. By promoting sustainability and economic growth, these data centers represent a forward-thinking step for Val-de-Marne, setting a blueprint for future technological and infrastructural projects.