Major AI data center construction brings economic boost to Lappeenranta
A new large-scale artificial intelligence data center in Lappeenranta, announced last week by the city and Dutch company Nebius, has been welcomed as a much-needed economic bright spot by local businesses, reports Yle.
The project, described as a “massive construction undertaking,” will create a 310-megawatt facility on a 41-hectare site—roughly the size of 57 full-size football fields—adjacent to Kuutostie road. Construction has already begun, with the first phase expected to be completed next year.
Pasi Toropainen, CEO of South Karelia Entrepreneurs, called the investment “long-awaited good news” for the region, which has faced significant job losses. Recent setbacks include UPM’s shutdown of a paper machine in Lappeenranta (over 200 layoffs), prolonged furloughs at Metsä Fibre’s Joutseno mill, and nearly 400 redundancies due to regional budget cuts.
Hundreds of jobs and broader economic impact
The data center is projected to employ 700 workers during construction and over 100 permanently once operational. Toropainen noted that while not all workers will be local, the influx will benefit hotels, spas, and restaurants—sectors struggling since the closure of the Finnish-Russian border reduced tourism.
Beyond direct employment, the project could spur collaboration between the center, Lappeenranta-Lahti University of Technology (LUT), vocational schools, and businesses, Toropainen suggested. The facility’s excess heat output might also attract industries seeking sustainable energy solutions.
Shift from forestry to tech
Historically reliant on forestry, South Karelia has seen declining employment in the sector. The data center, Toropainen said, offers a chance to diversify the local economy: “This could be a lifeline for regional employment.”
Construction will span several years, with site clearance already underway. The project’s long-term impact, Toropainen added, extends to supply chains, maintenance services, and potential partnerships in AI development.