Data4, one of the largest data centre operators in Europe, set an example on the path to sustainability. To start, they have finalized an innovative deal with EDF (Électricité de France), the largest retail energy provider in France. This new partnership represents an unprecedented historic milestone. Data4 has done the same to become the first operator in the country to obtain a 12-year nuclear production allocation contract (CAPN) with EDF. Through this contract, Data4 will be supplied with 40 megawatts (MW) from EDF’s nuclear fleet. This allocation will further fuel Data4’s strategic commitment to low-carbon energy.
The first deliveries from this contract will not begin until 2026. This thrilling advancement will allow Data4 to offer a decarbonized electricity supply for its French data centers. This arrangement is estimated to deliver over 230 GWh of annual low-carbon electricity. The contract includes a shared cost and risk mechanism. In addition, this design will contribute to long-term stability for Data4’s operations.
Commitment to Sustainability
Data4’s Chief Operating Officer, François Stérin, shared his excitement about the deal. He also spoke of his pride in signing the first low-carbon CAPN with EDF. This partnership celebrates their deep and enduring connection, as well as EDF’s vital contribution to advancing France’s energy transition. This joint effort further emphasizes Data4’s commitment to minimizing its impact on the environment and harmonizing its activities with ecological objectives.
Reinforcing this nuclear production allocation is a key piece of Data4’s overall strategy to reach its sustainability goals. Data4’s in the process of locking down a guaranteed source of low-carbon energy to further enhance their competitive advantage in the data centre space. This step aligns with France’s wider energy transition ambitions.
Stérin further emphasized the strategic importance of the contract by stating, “This contract is not only a strong environmental commitment. It is a cornerstone of our growth and competitiveness strategy. Combined with renewable energy purchase agreements, it guarantees reliable, resilient, and continuous access to low-carbon energy at a controlled long-term cost – a considerable advantage for our clients and the development of our infrastructure.”
Strategic Partnership with EDF
EDF has been instrumental in helping Data4 thrive and diversify their business to foster sustainability efforts. The collaboration can produce lasting benefits to both organizations and their constituents. Collectively, they will lead an aggressive push toward widespread adoption of low- and no-carbon energy innovations and technologies. Marc Benayoun, a representative from EDF, highlighted the significance of this collaboration: “EDF is pleased to sign a nuclear production allocation contract with Data4, a European data centre operator. Through this collaboration Data4 now benefits from a low-carbon, competitive and secured electricity supply. Simply put, no digital player can operate without the assurance of dependable energy sources.
He argued that this new initiative is a natural fit with EDF’s mission. It aids the establishment of data centers on French territory and the energy and industrial sovereignty of the French nation.
Looking Ahead
Data4 is preparing to put this agreement into action in an effort to practice what they preach. The company is building its reputation as a pioneer in sustainable data centre management. Our collaboration with EDF bears testament to this commitment and underscores our ongoing dedication to environmental sustainability. It gives Congress an opportunity to offer an innovative solution to the growing demand for low-carbon energy from the digital economy.