In an unprecedented move that positions it at the forefront of the global digital economy, Kenya’s EcoCloud has signed an MoU with UAE’s G42 for the development of the first-ever data center to be powered by geothermal power.
Strategically located in Kenya’s geothermal-rich region, the EcoCloud-G42 Mega Data Center is planned to have an initial capacity of 100 MW, but with the potential to build up to 1 Gigawatt, setting a new standard for sustainable data centers.
This initiative is not just an investment in technology but a bold statement of Kenya’s commitment to harnessing renewable energy for technological advancement. By leveraging the earth’s heat, the project dramatically cuts fossil fuel dependence, slashes carbon emissions, and stands as a beacon of environmental stewardship.
The collaboration between EcoCloud, a trailblazer in data center development, and G42, the leading UAE-based technology conglomerate, marks a significant leap in Kenya’s journey toward becoming a digital hub. This strategic partnership underlines a shared vision for fostering a robust digital infrastructure that not only accelerates the country’s digital transformation but also fortifies its position as a leader in technology-driven development.
This strategic agreement was signed by Eng. Amos Siwoi, CEO of EcoCloud, and Peng Xiao, Group CEO of G42, leading the UAE delegation, in the presence of His Excellency President William Samoei Ruto of Kenya, and Dr. Salim Ibrahim Binahmed Mohammed Alnaqbi, the Ambassador of the United Arab Emirates to Kenya.
Eng. Amos Siwoi, CEO of EcoCloud said “This collaboration marks a significant milestone in our commitment to sustainability and innovation. By harnessing the power of geothermal energy, we are not only meeting the region’s data needs but also setting a new standard for eco-friendly infrastructure. This partnership underscores our dedication to a greener, more sustainable future for Africa and beyond.”
“This geothermal-powered data center is a milestone towards realizing Kenya’s potential as a global digital hub and fulfilling our mission of making intelligence accessible to everyone, everywhere,” Peng Xiao, Group CEO of G42 added.
This development in Kenya comes at a time when data centers have faced scrutiny about their environmental impacts. Their rapid expansion in Africa has continued to raise concerns about their environmental impact, particularly in terms of energy consumption, carbon emissions, and waste generation. Over the years though several firms around the world have tried to make their data centers more eco-friendly.
‘’The collaboration between Kenya’s EcoCloud and the UAE’s G42 to construct a data center will catalyze Kenya’s emergence as a global digital hub. The first-ever data center powered by geothermal energy establishes a new benchmark for eco-friendly infrastructure and positions Kenya as a leader in sustainable industrialization.’’ President Ruto said.