Google has announced a major new investment of €5 billion (approximately $5.82 billion) in Belgium to expand its Artificial Intelligence (AI) and cloud infrastructure over the 2026–2027 period. This ambitious move marks one of Google’s largest European investments to date, reflecting the company’s long-term commitment to digital innovation, sustainability, and workforce development in Europe.
Boosting AI and Cloud Infrastructure
The investment will primarily focus on modernizing and expanding Google’s data center network in Belgium, particularly at its existing Saint-Ghislain campus and the new Farciennes site. These state-of-the-art facilities will play a key role in supporting the growing global demand for Google Cloud services and the immense computational power required to run advanced AI models.
The upgraded infrastructure will not only strengthen Google’s AI capabilities in Europe but also enhance the performance of its popular services such as Search, Maps, and Workspace. By investing heavily in local data centers, Google is positioning Belgium as a central hub for its next-generation AI and cloud operations.
Job Creation and Economic Growth
Google’s €5 billion expansion is expected to generate significant economic benefits for Belgium. The company estimates that the project will create around 300 new full-time jobs directly at its data centers, increasing total direct employment in Wallonia to over 900 positions. These roles will include engineers, IT specialists, and security experts who will manage and maintain the advanced facilities.
In addition, Google anticipates supporting roughly 15,000 indirect jobs every year through local contractors, suppliers, and technology partners in related sectors such as construction, energy, and services.
According to a Google-commissioned study, generative AI alone could boost Belgium’s GDP by €45–€50 billion over the next decade, highlighting the broader economic potential of the company’s commitment to digital transformation in the region.
Leading with Sustainability
Sustainability remains a cornerstone of Google’s global strategy. The company plans to ensure that its expanded data centers in Belgium operate entirely on carbon-free energy, aligning with its broader goal to achieve 24/7 carbon-free operations by 2030.
To support this vision, Google has signed long-term renewable energy agreements with local suppliers including Eneco, Luminus, and Renner, helping to fund the development of new onshore wind farms across Belgium. These projects will collectively contribute over 110 megawatts (MW) of clean energy capacity, ensuring that the company’s AI and cloud operations remain environmentally responsible.
Empowering the Local Workforce with AI Skills
Beyond infrastructure, Google’s investment also includes a strong educational and social component. The company will fund several non-profit organizations to offer free, practical AI training programs targeted at low-skilled and mid-career workers in Belgium.
This initiative aims to help more people gain the digital competencies needed to thrive in an increasingly AI-driven job market. By building local talent and supporting upskilling, Google is reinforcing its long-term vision of inclusive digital growth.
A Strategic Step for Google and Belgium
With this €5 billion commitment, Google is reinforcing Belgium’s position as one of Europe’s leading technology and data innovation hubs. The investment ties together three of Google’s core priorities: AI advancement, sustainability, and workforce empowerment.
It also underscores Europe’s growing importance in Google’s global infrastructure strategy, especially as demand for cloud computing and AI services accelerates across industries. For Belgium, the partnership promises new opportunities, cleaner energy, and a more skilled workforce setting the stage for a digital future built on innovation and sustainability.
