AWS European Sovereign Cloud: A Game-Changer for Europe

May 16, 2024, 9:54 am
Amazon Web Services
Amazon Web Services
BusinessCloudDataDevelopmentInfrastructureInternetITPlatformServiceWeb
Location: United States, Washington, Seattle
Employees: 1-10
Founded date: 2006
Total raised: $8.43B
In a bold move that is set to reshape the digital landscape of Europe, Amazon Web Services (AWS) has announced its plans to invest a staggering €7.8 billion into the AWS European Sovereign Cloud. This significant investment reflects AWS's unwavering commitment to meeting Europe's digital sovereignty needs and marks a pivotal moment in the evolution of cloud computing in the region.

The AWS European Sovereign Cloud is gearing up to launch its first AWS Region in Brandenburg, Germany, by the end of 2025, making it accessible to all customers. This strategic move is not just about expanding infrastructure; it's about empowering businesses, accelerating productivity gains, and upskilling the digital workforce. The ripple effect of this investment is expected to be felt across the local cloud community, creating a positive impact in the communities where AWS operates.

The economic implications of AWS's long-term investment are profound. It is estimated that the planned investment will contribute a staggering €17.2 billion to Germany's total Gross Domestic Product (GDP) through 2040. Additionally, this investment is projected to support an average of 2,800 full-time equivalent jobs in local German businesses each year. These jobs span various sectors, including construction, facility maintenance, engineering, telecommunications, and other areas within the broader local economy, forming a crucial part of the AWS data center supply chain.

Moreover, AWS is not just creating jobs; it is creating highly-skilled, permanent roles to build and operate the AWS European Sovereign Cloud. These roles will encompass software engineers, systems developers, and solutions architects, ensuring that the day-to-day operations of the AWS European Sovereign Cloud are controlled exclusively by personnel located in the EU. This commitment to local talent and expertise underscores AWS's dedication to fostering innovation and growth within the European digital landscape.

Over the last 25 years, AWS has been at the forefront of driving economic development through its investments in infrastructure, jobs, and skills across Europe. With a track record of investing more than €150 billion in the EU and employing over 150,000 people in permanent roles across the European Single Market, AWS has established itself as a key player in the region's digital transformation.

In Germany, AWS has been actively collaborating with local communities on innovative programs that have a lasting impact on the areas where its infrastructure is located. By focusing on developing cloud workforce and education initiatives for learners of all ages, AWS is addressing the skills gap and preparing individuals for the tech jobs of the future. For instance, AWS partnered with Siemens AG to design the first apprenticeship program for AWS data centers in Germany and launched the first national cloud computing certification with the German Chamber of Commerce (IHK), along with the AWS Skills to Jobs Tech Alliance in Germany.

The AWS European Sovereign Cloud represents a new era of cloud computing in Europe, offering customers more control and choice over their data. With a commitment to stringent security, sovereignty, and privacy requirements, the AWS European Sovereign Cloud will provide an independent cloud for Europe, designed to meet the evolving sovereignty needs of public sector organizations and customers in highly regulated industries. Customers using the AWS European Sovereign Cloud will benefit from the full power of AWS infrastructure, including industry-leading security, availability, performance, and resilience, all within the confines of the European Union (EU).

In conclusion, the AWS European Sovereign Cloud is not just a cloud platform; it is a testament to AWS's dedication to giving customers more control and choice to meet their unique digital sovereignty needs. By investing in innovation, security, and autonomy, AWS is paving the way for a more robust and resilient digital future for Europe.