Google plans a US$ 10 billion hyperscale data centre cluster in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, spread across three campuses and targeted to be operational by 2028. The project will support AI workloads, cloud services, and enterprise computing while emphasizing renewable energy and sustainable operations. With advanced infrastructure like submarine cables, microgrids, and energy-efficient cooling, the centre promises reduced latency, local jobs, and economic growth. This investment positions India as a key player in regional digital and cloud infrastructure, blending technological advancement with environmental responsibility.
Alphabet-owned Google is planning a major push into India’s cloud and AI infrastructure with a proposed $10 billion investment to build a 1-gigawatt data centre cluster around Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. The project, reportedly spread across three campuses in Adavivaram, Tarluvada, and Rambilli, could become one of the largest digital infrastructure investments in India, highlighting the country’s rising importance in the global tech map.
The scale of this investment is unprecedented. It would include submarine cables, dedicated landing stations, metro-fiber links, and high-capacity infrastructure capable of supporting cloud services, data storage, and AI workloads. For Google, locating data centres closer to growing Asian markets reduces latency and meets the rising demand for compute-heavy services such as machine learning, streaming, and enterprise cloud.
For Andhra Pradesh, the economic promise is substantial: high-value construction and operations jobs, local supply chain engagement, and upgraded digital infrastructure that could attract other tech firms. However, land acquisition and legal disputes remain challenges, with authorities working to resolve community concerns and ensure fair compensation.
A facility like Google’s Visakhapatnam campus can consume hundreds of megawatts of electricity — comparable to the needs of a small city. Most of this power is used to run servers, storage systems, networking equipment, and advanced cooling systems that prevent overheating and maintain optimal performance.
Energy efficiency directly impacts operational costs and environmental footprint. Advanced cooling techniques, energy-optimized servers, and efficient design help reduce both electricity use and carbon emissions. Many modern data centres aim for a Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) ratio close to 1.1, meaning nearly all energy goes into computing rather than overhead.
How do data centres source electricity sustainably?
Leading companies increasingly rely on renewable energy like solar, wind, or hydro. They may enter long-term power purchase agreements (PPAs) or invest in local renewable projects. Coastal data centres, such as Visakhapatnam, can integrate microgrids and battery storage to balance supply and demand while maintaining uninterrupted operations.
What safeguards ensure reliability and resilience?
To maintain uptime for cloud and AI services, data centres deploy redundant power lines, backup generators, uninterruptible power supplies (UPS), and advanced cooling systems. They are often designed to withstand grid fluctuations, extreme weather, and other operational risks.
How do sustainable measures benefit local communities?
Efficient operations and renewable power reduce strain on local grids and lower emissions. Moreover, large-scale data centre projects generate skilled jobs, infrastructure upgrades, and opportunities for local suppliers, while minimizing environmental impact.
As hyperscale data centre demand grows in India, Google’s Visakhapatnam cluster would accelerate the country’s transformation into a regional hub for cloud computing and AI services. Beyond economic gains, it poses a blueprint for combining digital growth with sustainability, showing that large infrastructure projects can serve both technological and environmental goals.
With discussions between Google and Andhra Pradesh officials ongoing, the project could mark a landmark moment for India’s digital economy, where power management, sustainability safeguards, and community benefits are as critical as servers and cables.
FAQs:
1. What is the capacity and investment of Google’s Visakhapatnam data centre?
Google plans to invest $10 billion to build a 1-gigawatt hyperscale data centre in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh. This facility will be Google’s first major data centre project in India and the largest in Asia.
2. How does Google ensure sustainability in its data centres?
Google is committed to operating the world’s most energy-efficient computing infrastructure. In 2024, the average annual Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE) for Google’s global data centres was 1.09, significantly lower than the industry average of 1.56. This efficiency is achieved through advanced cooling systems, AI-driven temperature controls, and optimized power distribution.
3. What renewable energy sources will power the Visakhapatnam data centre?
Google has allocated $2 billion specifically for renewable energy infrastructure to power the Visakhapatnam data centre. The company aims to run its data centres on 24/7 carbon-free energy by 2030, sourcing electricity from solar, wind, and hydroelectric projects.
4. How does the data centre impact the local community?
The Visakhapatnam data centre project is expected to create numerous job opportunities and stimulate local economic growth. Google plans to collaborate with local communities to provide employment and support regional development.
5. What are the challenges associated with the data centre project?
The project has faced legal challenges related to land acquisition, with some disputes arising over compensation and ownership. However, the Andhra Pradesh government is actively working to resolve these issues to ensure the timely completion of the data centre.
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