Amazon's Cloud Computing Arm AWS to Invest $17 Billion in Spain

Amazon's cloud computing division, AWS, has announced a substantial investment of €15.7 billion ($17 billion) to expand its data centers in Spain's Aragon region, extending its commitment to the country until 2033.

This move underscores AWS's strategic expansion efforts across Europe, following recent similar ventures in Germany and France.

GERMANY-US-RETAIL-INTERNET-DIGITAL-MEDIA-AMAZON-DELIVERY — A photo taken on August 8, 2023, shows the logo of US multinational technology and logistics company Amazon at their distribution center in Dortmund, western Germany. (Photo: INA FASSBENDER/AFP via Getty Images)

AWS Invests $17 Billion to Expand its Data Centers in Spain's Aragon

The investment in Spain's Aragon region is expected to generate approximately 17,500 full-time equivalent jobs annually and contribute an estimated €21.6 billion to the country's gross domestic product over the next decade. This reflects Spain's growing prominence as a hub for technology innovation and artificial intelligence within Europe.

Minister for Digital Transformation and the Public Service José Luis Escrivá emphasized the significance of AWS's decision, highlighting Spain's position as a key player in technology innovation and its ability to foster quality jobs in the tech sector.

The investment reaffirms Spain's appeal as a strategic tech hub in southern Europe, driven by factors such as connectivity, favorable climate, and renewable energy sources, according to Escrivá.

AWS's expansion in the Aragon region will receive support from the local government. Forty percent of the projected 6,800 jobs will be situated in Aragon. These employment opportunities will span various sectors, such as construction, engineering, and telecommunications, contributing significantly to the region's economic growth.

Jorge Azcón, president of the regional government in Aragón, praised AWS's impact on the local ecosystem since its establishment in the region. He hailed the investment as a landmark development that solidifies Aragon's position as a leading center for innovation and the cloud economy in Europe.

AWS Investment Increase

The announcement also marked a substantial increase from AWS's initial investment plan of €2.5 billion in 2021. The decision to expand its investment underscores AWS's long-term commitment to Spain and its confidence in its potential as a technology hub.

Suzana Curic, AWS Country Manager for Spain and Portugal, reiterated AWS's dedication to supporting Spain's growth across various fronts.

In line with its commitment to environmental responsibility, AWS pledges to power its data centers in Aragon with 100% renewable energy sources.

"Beyond direct investments and jobs supported, we plan to continue our partnerships with local schools and community initiatives to support talent development, community education programs, and sustainability initiatives," Curic said in a press release statement.

"We will match the electricity used in our data centers in Aragón with 100% renewable sources, and continue to look for different ways to innovate and run our operations more efficiently and sustainably, giving resources back to the communities where we have a presence."