Germany as a location for data centres

Due to the increasing digitalisation of the economy and society, data centres have become one of the fastest growing and most energy-intensive sectors in Germany. With more than 2,000 data centres and an IT connection capacity of over 2,700 MW, Germany is already the largest location for digital infrastructure in Europe.

Germany intends to expand its digital infrastructure in the coming years in order to secure the competitiveness of the German economy. This expansion is to take place in line with the energy and climate targets as part of the broad transformation of the energy system. At the same time, Germany's digital sovereignty is to be guaranteed.

The current developments were analysed from various perspectives in order to formulate opportunities, risks and recommendations for action for Germany as a business location.

Against this background, dena, SDIA, Borderstep Institute, University of Stuttgart (IER), Fraunhofer ISI, EY Law and bbh prepared a comprehensive report with the involvement of market-relevant stakeholders. This involved analysing the international and European market. The German market was then localised within this.  

The subject of the analysis was

• Developments and trends in the data centre market
• Energy system as a market framework
• The economics of data centres with their business models, effects, obstacles and drivers
• Regulatory framework
• Opportunities of a future German market for data centres

The results of the report were then validated by a broad group of experts in three stakeholder workshops. The resulting recommendations for action are aimed at strengthening Germany's competitive position and promoting the market for data centres in a targeted manner. 

• January 2025: Publication of the report on the BMWK website.