A major project to establish data centers has been launched in Aragón, with the potential to significantly transform the region’s economy. According to expert estimates, the annual contribution to the economy could reach 5 billion euros, which is about a tenth of the current gross regional product.
Once all facilities are operational, the sector is expected to create up to 4,500 highly qualified jobs with competitive salaries. The average annual salary in this field is estimated at 42,000 euros. During the construction phase, employment could temporarily rise to 187,000 people, boosting the construction sector significantly over the next four years.
In the long term, 9,000 permanent jobs are expected to be created, including both direct and indirect employment. This increase could lower the region’s unemployment rate by 20%, given that Aragón currently has around 50,000 unemployed residents.
Tax revenues at all levels of government will also grow. Over a decade, regional and municipal tax income could exceed 1.2 billion euros. Municipalities hosting the new facilities are projected to receive between 277 and 392 million euros.
However, implementing these plans will require an upgrade of the energy infrastructure. The need to increase investment in the development of power grids is being discussed at the ministerial level. Only with expanded access to energy resources will investors be able to fully realize their projects.
Electricity consumption by all centers could reach 3.4 GW, equivalent to half of the region’s projected demand by 2030. Experts believe that Aragon’s renewable energy capacity can meet these needs.
The issue of rational use of water resources is also on the agenda. Cooling the equipment will require an amount of water comparable to 7.6–22.9% of Zaragoza’s annual consumption. As a solution, experts propose making greater use of treated water to minimize pressure on natural sources.
By volume of investment attracted to the data center sector, Aragon has already risen to third place in Europe, surpassing cities like Dublin and Paris. The region trails only London and Frankfurt, but experts predict that Aragon could take a leading position in the coming years.
