Will be a good neighbour.

Finally, the business community in Grenland had the opportunity to meet with Google’s own representatives for the data centre to be built at Gromstul in Skien. In the meeting with the companies, there were two clear messages: Google wants to be a good neighbour and facilitate the use of local expertise and labour.

Work at Gromstul, north of Skien, is well underway with the realisation of the first phase. Google says they see potential for perhaps 5 new phases on the site. It’s currently uncertain when the decision on further development will be made. This depends on several factors, including access to energy, explained Google. Currently, around 100 people work on the site, but this will increase throughout the development and construction period. At peak times, around 1000 people will work directly on the site. At the same time, Google confirms that the total number involved in the process around the first centre will be much higher.

The first centre is planned to be completed during Q2 of 2026. Google’s first phase in Skien is valued at around 6.5 billion Norwegian kroner and is one of the largest single investments made and planned in Norway.

Alistair Mackintosh, Google’s construction manager in the Nordics, began by saying they want to be a good neighbour. The company’s plan extends over several years, and because they will be in Skien for a long time, they want to be local. “We will use hotels, restaurants, shops, transportation, security services, and much more here in the region. You will notice that Google has come to town,” he emphasised. Already today, right outside the Google site, several other businesses have been started that employ many people. These are contracts with local and regional suppliers.

Google’s Andy Burton also said they wanted to be an engaged company in Skien. “We have the opportunity to sponsor good initiatives and activities and want to collaborate with local actors, but you have to tell us what you need from us. Google has created a separate portal where companies can submit their services and make themselves known to Google as a potential partner and supplier.” Google also said they would be happy to talk to people. Feel free to ask for a chat, was the message.

When the first phase is completed, around 100 people will be permanently employed on-site. Hiring starts next year.

Google praised the area in Skien. They emphasised that the site is one of the most beautiful and pointed out that they would take good care of it and all areas not directly affected by construction. They also praised the reception in Skien. We feel welcome, and it’s a good feeling, they all confirmed.