Akita Prefecture and Akita City have announced plans to build one of Japan’s largest data centers for AI applications. The project will be led primarily by エスツー and ビットグリット, while the UAE has indicated its interest in investing. Operations are targeted to begin in the first half of the 2030s.
Akita Prefecture and Akita City have disclosed plans by Akita-based IT company エスツー and U.S. AI startup ビットグリット to build a data center in the northern part of Akita City, with a renewable-energy industrial park being considered as the site. The data center is expected to have a total power intake capacity of 500 megawatts, which would make it one of the largest in Japan if completed.
In terms of investment and financing, the parties indicated that they aim to attract approximately ¥2 trillion in investment and loans from investors, including those in the UAE, as well as from governments. They also announced a policy of establishing a special-purpose company to operate the data center by the end of this year. Operations are expected to begin in the first half of the 2030s.
To facilitate an investment visit to Akita from the UAE, plans are being made to bring forward arrangements for a visit by the UAE ambassador to Japan and other officials. The prefecture and city hope to attract related industries and secure AI talent. A prefectural official gave a favorable assessment of the investment’s certainty and emphasized the intention to continue discussions.
Those involved in the project indicated that its realization could enable Akita to develop as a leading AI city. The governor and mayor also discussed its benefits. Creating a future-oriented investment environment and revitalizing the local economy are the central focus.