Located in County Galway, Ireland and Denmark’s central Jutland, the facilities will power Apple’s online services for customers across Europe.
The two data centres will each measure 166,000 square metres and begin operations in 2017. The company will also be working with local partners to develop additional renewable energy projects.
“We are grateful for Apple’s continued success in Europe and proud that our investment supports communities across the continent,” said Tim Cook, Apple’s CEO. “This significant new investment represents Apple’s biggest project in Europe to date. We’re thrilled to be expanding our operations, creating hundreds of local jobs and introducing some of our most advanced green building designs yet.”
In Ireland, Apple will develop on land previously used for growing and harvesting non-native trees. The project will also provide an outdoor education space for local schools, as well as a walking trail for the community.
In Denmark, the company’s data centre will be located next to one of the country’s largest electrical substations. The facility will also capture excess heat to help warm homes in the neighbouring community.
The facilities will have the lowest environmental impact yet for an Apple data centre, according to the company.