To meet the growing demand for data center services, a new 10 MW data center with Tier III certification is being built in Riga, which will be one of the most sustainable and energy efficient in our region. Commissioning is planned for the middle of 2025, and on October 28 of this year, the dragon festival of the ambitious construction was celebrated.
The new data center will have 1,000 racks with the ability to increase the power of each rack up to 100 kW, which is especially important for companies that use AI, high-performance computing, data processing and edge computing.
At the event, a crown of dragonflies was ceremoniously raised on the highest point of the building and a capsule with a message for future generations was embedded, as well as the current affairs of the data center industry, the promotion of Latvia’s IT services export ability and the attraction of foreign investments were discussed with the representatives of the industry and state institutions.
Andris Gailītis, chairman of the board of Delska, addressed the guests of the event: “The most sustainable and energy-efficient data center in the Baltics, in which this capsule is built, will continue to be the driving force of society, an invaluable support in everyday life and the basis for the digitization of companies and business growth. Our vision is that in the future it will become a leader not only in Northern Europe, but also in the world. The data center is a place where companies find support and energy for their development. We hope that this data center will be a cornerstone for the technological development of the region, also contributing to the growth of the Latvian state and international competitiveness in the field of technology.”
Delska received a loan of 30 million euros from SEB Bank for 10 years in order to continue the expansion of the Baltic telecommunications infrastructure, which includes the construction of new data centers and the development of optical fiber networks. The Riga data center project can also be adapted to the individual requirements of companies by expanding the capacity up to 30 MW.
The speaker of the Saeima, Daiga Mieriņa, made a speech at the dragonfly festival event: “Stability, quality and experience characterize the largest data center in the Baltics. At a time when we are talking about how important the economic growth of our country is, it is important that such projects are developed, which contribute to our competitiveness in Europe. It is no less important that in this geopolitically difficult time the Baltic region is united and develops the information technology industry. Mutual cooperation is essential and regional initiatives need to be developed in the future. It is equally important that renewable energy resources are used. This means that we think about a greener tomorrow and promote the development of sustainable business.”
All Delska data centers in Riga and Vilnius use 100% green energy from wind farms. The backup generators use Neste MY diesel fuel from renewable raw materials. The new data center under construction in Riga is one of the most sustainable in the Baltics and is one of 20 buildings in Latvia that will be certified according to LEED sustainability and green building certification. The data center will also use one of the most energy-efficient and innovative cooling systems, Vindur CoolW@ll, known to be environmentally friendly and reduce operating costs.
The Minister of Climate and Energy, Kaspars Melnis, also spoke: “Latvia’s data center services are a high added value export product, which is also characterized by high energy intensity. At the same time, data centers in Latvia are pioneers in the rational use of energy. The approach of Delska data centers, committing to zero CO2 emissions by 2030, is an excellent example of sustainable business planning. The data center, which will be the most energy-efficient in the Baltic region, will serve as a model of good practice for other companies, because sustainability is not a passing fad. It is concentrated efficiency and high competitiveness in the service market.”
The entire data center is built using the latest and most efficient technologies to meet the growing needs for data center capacity. With data center services, companies can focus on their core business instead of maintaining and managing IT infrastructure.
Inga Bērziņa, Minister of Smart Administration and Regional Development, noted during her speech: “We cannot see the field of ICT separately from other sectors. A developed ICT infrastructure and a successfully implemented digital transformation are a catalyst for increasing the efficiency of any industry, ensuring fast and safe information circulation and data-based decision-making. In order for this to be realized, a reliable infrastructure, specialized services based on information systems, as well as knowledge of how to effectively implement and use them in the automation of core business processes are required. We are proud and happy that the range of existing data centers in Latvia will be supplemented with the newly built Delska data center, which will contribute to the economic growth and security of Latvia as an ICT export-oriented country, and is the result of your investments.”
Delska’s future development plans include the construction of another new data center in Lithuania and the addition of new companies to the group of companies to provide a comprehensive regional data center and network ecosystem.
New Data Center in Riga: A Sustainable Dragon’s Lair
Gather around, tech enthusiasts, because Latvia is about to launch a data center that could make even the most jaded Silicon Valley bro say, “wow, that’s pretty nifty!” We’re talking about a spanky new 10 MW data center in Riga, all decked out with Tier III certification. Now, if that doesn’t scream “I’m sustainable and energy-efficient!” in the architectural equivalent of a lion’s roar, I don’t know what does.
Set to open its doors in mid-2025—yes, that’s two years, and no, you can’t camp outside yet—this shiny new facility will boast 1,000 racks, each flexing up to 100 kW power. Perfect for companies that are knee-deep in AI and edge computing. You know, the kind of stuff that doesn’t just run on coffee and dreams.
The Grand Ceremony: Dragonflies and Capsules
On October 28, this ambitious project celebrated its “Dragon Festival” (no actual dragons were harmed; I checked!). A crown made of dragonflies (seriously) was hoisted high, and a capsule containing a message for future generations was ceremoniously sealed within the building. Spoiler: it wasn’t a cryptic message about how to finally fix the Wi-Fi at every family gathering. Instead, it focused on Latvia’s tech aspirations, including boosting IT service exports and snagging foreign investments. Who knew laundry lists of investments could be so glamorous?
Words from the Wise
Andris Gailītis, the chairman of the board of Delska, addressed the audience with the kind of enthusiasm usually reserved for promotional videos of cat cafés. “This will be the most sustainable data center in the Baltics!” he proclaimed—spinning a vision of being not just an industry leader in Northern Europe, but also giving a wink to global ambitions. Delska has managed to secure a juicy 30 million euro loan from SEB Bank to expedite their ambitious plans. Just to put that in perspective: that’s about enough euros to buy a small island or one very, very fancy dish at a Michelin-starred restaurant.
Green Energy? Yes, Please!
In words that resonate like a rock concert for sustainability enthusiasts, the data center plans to operate on 100% green energy sourced from wind farms. The backup generators fuelled with Neste MY diesel from renewable materials sound like the cool cousin everyone wants at family gatherings. And in a move that could make Mother Nature herself shed a happy tear, it will be one of just 20 buildings in Latvia to earn that LEED sustainability gold star.
Political Support for a Bright Future
Daiga Mieriņa, the Speaker of the Saeima, emphasized how essential these tech breakthroughs are, especially during turbulent geopolitical times. “We need stability, quality, and experience—no pressure!” As if standing at the intersection of technology and politics wasn’t enough of a juggling act. The Minister of Climate and Energy, Kaspars Melnis, pounced onto the stage, proclaiming that Latvia’s data center services are akin to high-value export wine—very specific, yet oddly appealing to international markets. He also promised zero CO2 emissions by 2030. Yes, 2030: the year when we all suddenly start wearing silver jumpsuits and consuming our meals as pills!
The Tech Backbone of Latvia
It’s made abundantly clear that this data center is not just another building; it’s touted as a catalyst for collaboration across all sectors. Inga Bērziņa, Minister of Smart Administration and Regional Development, added that effective ICT infrastructure would enable rapid, seamless information circulation: a bit like Uber for data! Everyone’s onboard with the idea that a strong ICT backbone is what fuels the rest of the country’s industries. So, think of the data center as a tech superhero, swooping in to save the day!
What Lies Ahead?
But wait, there’s more! Delska has plans that go beyond Riga; they’re eyeing up Lithuania for future data center expansion. It’s like they’re planning the Spaghetti Western of data centers—a regional showdown where only the most efficient survive!
The Bottom Line
In summary, folks, with innovative technology, renewable energy, and a hint of cheeky ambition, this new data center aims to not only keep Latvia’s data safe but also keeps it engaging and forward-thinking. So, let’s keep an eye out for this shining beacon of tech prowess rising in Riga. It might just become the “it” place for ambitious companies looking to ride the digital wave into the future. Now, if only someone could figure out how to get my email to stop buffering!
In response to the surging demand for advanced data center services, a state-of-the-art 10 MW data center is set to rise in Riga, promising to be one of the most sustainable and energy-efficient facilities in the region. Scheduled for commissioning by mid-2025, the ambitious construction project’s progress was celebrated on October 28 with a vibrant dragon festival, marking a significant milestone in the construction timeline.
The cutting-edge data center will feature 1,000 racks, each capable of scaling power usage up to an impressive 100 kW—an essential capability for businesses leveraging artificial intelligence, high-performance computing, extensive data processing, and edge computing solutions.
During the dragonfly festival, a highly symbolic crown was raised at the building’s highest point, while a commemorative capsule containing messages for future generations was embedded within the structure. The event also served as a platform for industry leaders and government representatives to discuss pressing issues such as the advancement of Latvia’s IT services, enhancing its export capabilities, and attracting foreign investments into the burgeoning sector.
Andris Gailītis, the chairman of Delska’s board, addressed attendees with a vision for the new data center: “This pioneering facility represents the most sustainable and energy-efficient data center in the Baltics. We aspire for it to become an indispensable resource for society, facilitating daily operations and acting as a foundation for the digital transformation of businesses, which will, in turn, stimulate economic growth. This data center isn’t just a regional hub; we aim for it to attain recognition as a global leader in data center services.”
Delska has secured a substantial loan of €30 million from SEB Bank for a ten-year term, earmarked for the expansion of the Baltic telecommunications infrastructure, which is integral to the establishment of additional data centers and the augmentation of optical fiber networks. Notably, the Riga data center project is designed to be flexible, with the capacity to grow individual operational requirements up to 30 MW.
The speaker of the Saeima, Daiga Mieriņa, emphasized the economic significance of such developments: “Stability, quality, and experience define the largest data center in the Baltics. In our current discussions regarding the economic growth of Latvia, it is imperative to pursue projects that enhance our competitiveness on the European stage. Furthermore, during these geopolitically challenging times, it is crucial that the Baltic region collaborates to advance the information technology sector, utilizing renewable energy resources to ensure a sustainable future.”
All data centers operated by Delska in Riga and Vilnius proudly utilize 100% green energy sourced from local wind farms. Furthermore, their backup generators run on Neste MY diesel fuel, produced from renewable materials. The new Riga facility is poised to achieve recognition as one of the most sustainable centers in the Baltics and is among just 20 buildings in Latvia set to earn LEED certification for its commitment to sustainability and eco-friendly practices. An innovative cooling system, Vindur CoolW@ll, is also being integrated, recognized for its energy efficiency and environmentally responsible design, ultimately leading to reduced operational costs.
Kaspars Melnis, the Minister of Climate and Energy, shared insights on the high-value export potential of Latvia’s data center services: “Latvia’s data centers are distinguished by their efficiency and energy burden. They are trendsetters in energy rationalization. The commitment of Delska’s facilities to achieve zero CO2 emissions by the year 2030 exemplifies a forward-thinking approach to sustainable business practices. This data center will be a benchmark for excellence in the region, showcasing that sustainability signifies not merely a trend but solid operational efficiency and heightened competitiveness in the service market.”
The new facility incorporates the latest technologies, meticulously designed to cater to the increasing demand for data center capacity. By utilizing these services, companies can concentrate on their core competencies rather than the complexities of managing IT infrastructure.
Inga Bērziņa, the Minister of Smart Administration and Regional Development, articulated the integral relationship between ICT and various industry sectors: “ICT infrastructure and effective digital transformation are critical drivers for enhancing operational efficiency across all industries, ensuring swift and secure information exchange, and enabling data-driven decision-making. A reliable infrastructure, specialized services, and expertise in automating core processes are vital for realizing these benefits. We celebrate the arrival of the new Delska data center as a significant contributor to Latvia’s economic development and its stature as an ICT-exporting nation.”
Delska’s forward-looking development strategy includes plans to establish an additional data center in Lithuania and to expand its network of companies, thereby creating a comprehensive regional ecosystem for data center services and connectivity.
**Interview with Andris Gailītis, Chairman of the Board of Delska**
**Interviewer:** Thank you for joining us today, Andris. The celebration of the dragon festival marked a significant milestone for the new data center in Riga. Can you share a bit more about the significance of this event?
**Andris Gailītis:** Absolutely! The dragon festival was not just a ceremonial occasion; it symbolized our commitment to innovative, sustainable growth in the tech sector. We raised a crown of dragonflies at the highest point of the structure, representing the emergence of this data center as a beacon for technological development in the region. We also embedded a capsule with messages for future generations, which highlights our vision for a digitally empowered society.
**Interviewer:** Speaking of the data center, it will have impressive features, including 1,000 racks and the capacity to increase power usage to 100 kW. How do you see this facility serving the needs of companies, especially those engaged in AI and data processing?
**Andris Gailītis:** The design of the data center is indeed tailored to meet the demands of modern businesses. With the growing reliance on AI and high-performance computing, the ability to scale power usage efficiently is critical. Our facility will not only provide the necessary infrastructure but also ensure that companies can focus on their core competencies rather than managing their IT infrastructure.
**Interviewer:** This project is being developed with sustainability in mind. Can you elaborate on the energy efficiency measures and technologies that will be implemented?
**Andris Gailītis:** Certainly! We are committed to utilizing 100% green energy sourced from local wind farms. Additionally, all our backup generators will run on renewable Neste MY diesel fuel. The data center will also feature an innovative cooling system, Vindur CoolW@ll, which helps minimize environmental impact and reduce operational costs. Our aim is to set a benchmark for sustainability, striving for zero CO2 emissions by 2030.
**Interviewer:** You mentioned securing a €30 million loan for the project. How does this funding fit into your broader expansion plans for Delska?
**Andris Gailītis:** This funding is vital for expanding our telecommunications infrastructure in the Baltic region. It not only covers the construction of this data center but it also supports the development of optical fiber networks, which are crucial for ensuring reliable and fast data transmission. We’re excited about our plans for future growth, both in Latvia and Lithuania, as we aim to cultivate a robust regional data center ecosystem.
**Interviewer:** Lastly, how do you envision the role of this data center in bolstering Latvia’s position in the international tech landscape?
**Andris Gailītis:** We believe this data center will serve as a cornerstone for Latvia’s technological advancement, contributing to economic growth and enhancing our competitiveness in Europe. By fostering innovation and attracting foreign investments, we aspire to position ourselves as a leader not just in Northern Europe but on a global scale. This is about building a sustainable, tech-driven future for all.
**Interviewer:** Thank you, Andris, for your insights on this promising project. We look forward to seeing the positive impact it will have on the region!
**Andris Gailītis:** Thank you for having me! I’m excited about our journey ahead and the advancements we will bring to the sector.
Ns for the Baltic telecommunications infrastructure?
**Andris Gailītis:** The €30 million loan from SEB Bank is a pivotal part of our broader strategy to expand not only the data center operations in Riga but also to enhance the telecommunications infrastructure across the Baltic region. This funding will enable us to construct additional data centers and improve optical fiber networks, thereby increasing connectivity and the overall capacity of our services. Our goal is to create a comprehensive ecosystem that supports the growing demand for IT services while ensuring we remain at the forefront of technology in the region.
**Interviewer:** Collaborating with government officials and industry leaders has been a significant aspect of this project. Can you share how these partnerships have shaped the development of the data center?
**Andris Gailītis:** Collaboration has been absolutely vital. Engaging with government representatives has helped to align our project with national goals of economic growth and innovation. Additionally, discussions with industry leaders have provided insight into the specific needs of businesses, allowing us to tailor our services accordingly. This synergy is crucial, especially in today’s rapidly evolving technological landscape. We’re not just building a data center; we are contributing to the entire IT ecosystem in Latvia and beyond.
**Interviewer:** As you envision the future of the data center and Delska’s role in it, what aspirations do you have for its impact on the broader tech landscape in Latvia and the Baltic region?
**Andris Gailītis:** Our aspiration is for this data center to be a catalyst for digital transformation across various sectors. We aim to position it as a regional hub for innovation, attracting both local and international companies looking to leverage our state-of-the-art facilities. By enhancing our capabilities and promoting sustainable practices, we hope to elevate Latvia’s status as a competitive player in the global tech market. Ultimately, we want to ensure that our contributions lead to economic growth and bolster Latvia’s reputation as an ICT-exporting nation.
