Borealis Data Center, a leader in sustainable data center solutions in Iceland, is thrilled to announce the strategic acquisition and subsequent AI/HPC expansion of the Kajaani Data Center in Finland. This move signifies a major step forward in enhancing high-performance computing (HPC) and artificial intelligence (AI) capabilities, while continuing a strong commitment to eco-efficiency,  technological excellence, and expansion in the Nordics. 

"The Kajaani Campus has been designed to the highest standards and is backed by a robust supply of renewable energy and a secure infrastructure. Like Borealis Data Center‘s three locations in Iceland, Kajaani benefits from Finland‘s cool climate which serves as an ideal setting for data center efficiency. This facility marks a significant enhancement to Borealis's portfolio, enriching our customer offering. We look forward to welcoming new customers to our new data center," states Björn Brynjúlfsson, CEO and co-founder of Borealis Data Center. 

Key Highlights

• Strong Eco-Efficient Foundation and Expansion: Originally operated by Herman IT, the Kajaani Data Center, located in the Renforsin Ranta business area, is a paragon of sustainability, utilizing an old paper mill's infrastructure for eco-friendly operations. The planned HPC/AI expansion of the data center aligns with this legacy, furthering Borealis's dedication to minimal environmental impact and cutting-edge technology. The data center is 100% powered by renewable energy (hydro, wind).
  
  

• Technological Prowess & Collaboration with CSC: The data center which has plans for expansion, aims to stand as a pinnacle of high-performance computing, bolstered by robust and fast data communications networks, catering to the voracious demands for HPC and AI services.  Renforsin Ranta area is also home to the LUMI supercomputer, one of the EuroHPC world-class supercomputers and leading platforms for artificial intelligence, allows companies to make extensive use of high-performance computing (HPC) as part of product development and innovation activities. Up to 20% of the LUMI supercomputer’s capacity has been reserved for companies. Collaboration with CSC and the local research community is core to the Borealis Data Center acquisition. 
  
  

• Sustainable and Adaptable Infrastructure: With a design that promotes adaptability for hardware installations and infrastructural extensions, the center capitalizes on Finland's cool climate and hydroelectric power for energy-efficient cooling and a minimal carbon footprint. 
  
  

• Proven Reliability: The data center’s commitment to security and operational excellence is underlined by its ISO/IEC 27001 certification, ensuring the highest standards in data security and operations. 
  
  

• Continuity of Service: Herman IT will continue to provide its services to the data center and both Borealis and Herman IT are committed to a successful transition and uninterrupted continuity of services. 
  
  

About Borealis Data Center: With a legacy of innovation in renewable energy use and free air cooling technology, Borealis Data Center has emerged as a leader in environmentally responsible data solutions. Primarily operating in Iceland and now expanding in Finland, Borealis Data Center is distinguished by its recently acquired ISO 27001/18/17 certifications. 

About Kajaani Data Center: Situated in Kajaani, Finland, the data center has set new industry standards in eco-efficiency and high-performance computing. It is renowned for its strategic use of renewable energy sources, particularly hydroelectric power, underscoring its commitment to reducing environmental impact. The center holds an ISO 27001 certification. 

About Herman IT: Herman IT offers comprehensive IT services to support its customers' business. Our service package includes data center and cloud services, IT expert services, services developed for information security, information risk management and ensuring business continuity.