NextFin news, Google, a subsidiary of Alphabet, announced on Thursday, October 9, 2025, that it will invest €5 billion in Belgium over the next two years to expand its data center facilities in Saint-Ghislain. This investment aims to meet the surging demand for artificial intelligence (AI) and cloud services, while creating 300 new full-time jobs in the region.
The expansion will enhance Google's capacity to support AI-driven services, including Google Cloud, Search, Maps, and Workspace products. Currently, Google employs approximately 600 full-time and contract workers at the Saint-Ghislain site, and the new investment will significantly increase the workforce.
Google stated that the funding will also back local skill development programs and renewable energy projects. The company committed to signing new zero-carbon energy agreements with Belgian energy providers Eneco, Luminus, and Renner, supporting up to 365 megawatts of renewable energy resources in the country. Since 2010, Google has signed clean energy purchase agreements totaling over 4.5 gigawatts of wind and solar power across Europe.
Belgian Prime Minister Bart De Wever welcomed the investment, describing it as a strong vote of confidence in Belgium as a hub for digital innovation and sustainable growth. He emphasized the strategic importance of the project in reinforcing Belgium's position in Europe's digital future.
This announcement coincides with Princess Astrid of Belgium's economic visit to the United States and follows similar investments by Google and other U.S. tech giants in Europe. For instance, last month Google pledged £5 billion for AI and infrastructure projects in the UK, expected to create over 8,000 jobs annually. Other companies like Oracle, Microsoft, and Amazon have also announced multi-billion dollar investments in European AI and cloud infrastructure.
Google's investment in Belgium reflects the broader trend of U.S. technology firms expanding their data center infrastructure in Europe to support rapid advancements in AI technology and growing cloud service demands.
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