Campus AI Set for Massive Growth in France, Targets 3GW Computing Capacity

Campus AI has unveiled ambitious plans to broaden its footprint in France, with an objective of achieving up to 3 gigawatts (GW) of AI computing capacity across the country. This expansion comes after the decision to select a second site, effectively doubling the initial investment made by the consortium and its partners.

This initiative is a collaboration that involves Bpifrance, France’s public investment bank; Mistral, a prominent European generative AI firm; MGX, a global investment entity in AI and advanced technologies; and NVIDIA, a leader in accelerated computing worldwide.

The new phase of expansion will extend beyond Campus AI’s flagship facility in Fouju, situated in the Seine-et-Marne region. The goal is to establish a prominent pan-European network of AI factories to respond to the rising demand for responsible, sustainable AI computing throughout Europe.

With its nationwide expansion, Campus AI will continue to bolster Mistral’s growth by offering significant computing capacity across various sites. The initiative is set to enhance France’s reputation as the preeminent hub for extensive, low-carbon AI infrastructure in Europe.

The announcement was made during the Choose France Summit, attended by French President Emmanuel Macron and His Excellency Khaldoon Al Mubarak, Chairman of the Executive Affairs Authority of Abu Dhabi and Secretary General of the Artificial Intelligence and Advanced Technology Council. Their participation underscored the project’s strategic importance for both France and the UAE.

The expansion is poised to generate thousands of jobs within France. Campus AI is collaborating closely with French industrial firms engaged in power generation, batteries, semiconductors, electronics, and other vital technologies. This alliance aims to fortify France’s technological sovereignty while fostering a competitive AI ecosystem across Europe.

This news follows significant advancements at the initial Fouju campus, where local officials and community leaders have partnered with Campus AI to attract investments and create job opportunities. The campus meets high environmental standards and leverages France’s decarbonized electricity grid. It incorporates water-free cooling systems and energy-efficient infrastructure that supports sustainable development in AI.

Campus AI indicates that the second site will adhere to a similar model, emphasizing close cooperation with local authorities, excellent environmental standards, and fostering European AI innovation. This expansion is anticipated to further cement France’s position as a nucleus for sustainable AI development in Europe.

Thibaud Desfossés, President of Campus AI, asserted that France possesses the energy resources, talent, and research prowess required to spearhead Europe in the field of artificial intelligence. He emphasized that scaling Campus AI to 3GW will create an accessible platform that supports French suppliers, fortifies the domestic technology sector, and offers French AI enterprises computing power that would otherwise be challenging to attain.