OpenAI has launched its first European AI data center, one of the world’s largest GPU facilities, near Narvik in Northern Norway. Developed in collaboration with Nscale Global Holdings and Aker ASA, this $1 billion joint venture, named Stargate Norway, aims to provide up to 520 megawatts of power capacity, starting with an initial 100,000 NVIDIA GPUs by the end of 2026.
The facility will operate on renewable hydropower using closed-loop liquid cooling for energy efficiency and minimal environmental impact. OpenAI COO Brad Lightcap stated that Stargate Norway is crucial for scalable, sustainable AI infrastructure in Europe, offering a model for responsible, local AI compute delivery.
Located in Kvandal, renowned for its cold climate, clean energy, and low latency to European markets, the project is part of OpenAI’s “OpenAI for Countries” initiative, which provides nations with locally governed compute infrastructure to bolster AI strategies, research, and startups. Norwegian institutions, researchers, and startups will have priority access, with additional capacity offered to the Nordics, UK, and Northern Europe.
Øyvind Eriksen, Aker ASA CEO, described the facility as a digital-industrial platform for innovation with AI tools. Stargate Norway will reuse waste heat for district heating and industrial purposes in Narvik, supporting various workloads like AI training and scientific simulations.
OpenAI will initially utilize the compute, with future expansion open to public and private partners. Nscale and Aker will fund the first ~20 MW phase, with further capital to be raised as needed.