How data centres are becoming part of Europe’s critical infrastructure

Claes Andersson, Division Manager Mission Critical at Sweco UK.

Published on: April 2, 2026

As Europe accelerates its digital transition, data centres are emerging as critical infrastructure underpinning everything from AI to cloud services and data sovereignty. With investments projected to reach EUR 100 billion by 2030 and steady annual growth, the sector presents significant opportunities—and complex challenges—across energy, sustainability and security.

In this interview, Claes Andersson, Division Manager Mission Critical at Sweco UK, explains what is driving the surge in demand, how Sweco’s integrated, multidisciplinary approach sets it apart and where he sees the most promising opportunities as data centres evolve at the intersection of digitalisation and decarbonisation.

Data centres are at the core of Europe’s digital transition. What is driving this surge in demand, and how is Sweco positioned to capture it?

Demand is accelerating as AI, cloud and digital services scale across all sectors in society, reinforced by data sovereignty policy. Europe forecasts around EUR 100 billion in data centre investments by 2030 and about 10 per cent annual growth. Sweco is well positioned; we combine our expertise in energy systems, infrastructure and buildings design to manage data centres as part of urban and energy ecosystems. Our local presence combined with capacity for pan-European delivery make us a trusted partner for global operators and regional developers.

What distinguishes Sweco’s approach to data centres?

Our advantage lies in integration. Sweco brings architects, engineers, sustainability specialists and digital infrastructure experts together under one roof, enabling fully co-ordinated projects from site selection, permitting and design to commissioning. Clients choose Sweco for our ability to navigate both technical complexity and regulatory demands, often decisive factors in successful delivery.

Sustainability is becoming a key factor for investors and operators. How is Sweco contributing to the next generation of data centres?

We help clients meet rising expectations on climate performance. Sweco designs energy and water-efficient facilities that integrate renewables, advanced cooling, as well as optimised use of land and materials to reduce disruptions and environmental impact.

How do security and geopolitical turbulence shape the market?

As data centres become part of Europe’s critical infrastructure, security and redundancy are central to investment decisions. Sweco’s experience in dual-use infrastructure gives us a unique perspective on physical protection, data security, redundancy planning and risk mapping, in line with national and EU regulations.

Looking ahead, how do you see data centres evolving, and where are the most material opportunities for Sweco?

Data centres will remain central to AI’s development and Europe’s digital and green transition, increasingly integrating with local energy systems. We also see a shift from traditional lower density cloud-based implementations to AI embedment, which is changing the way data centres are designed and constructed. Sweco’s opportunities lie in multidisciplinary consultancy across our home markets, leveraging our expertise at the intersection of digitalisation and decarbonisation.