AWS Receives Final Approval for €15.7 Billion Data Centre Expansion in Aragon

The Government of Aragon has officially declared the project to be of General Interest, providing the final go-ahead for construction to commence on the expansion of facilities in Villanueva de Gállego, El Burgo de Ebro, and Huesca.

Amazon Web Services (AWS) has been given the green light to proceed with a major expansion of its data centre operations in Aragon, following a definitive approval published in the region’s Official Gazette this Monday. The declaration, fast-tracked as a Plan of General Interest for Aragon (PIGA), clears the way for the technology giant to move forward with its landmark €15.7 billion investment in the region.

The decision was finalised during an extraordinary session of the regional government council on Friday and marks the culmination of the administrative process, allowing construction work to begin immediately at the existing sites in Villanueva de Gállego, El Burgo de Ebro, and the Walqa Technology Park in Huesca.

Government Backing and Economic Impact

Octavio López, the Councillor for Development, Housing, Logistics, and Territorial Cohesion, stated that the approval demonstrates the regional government’s commitment to attracting major investment. “The decision confirms that our policy of rolling out the red carpet for investment is a reality,” he said. “The entire administrative and institutional apparatus is focused on supporting investment, generating employment, and transforming our autonomous community in the shortest possible time. These large-scale projects position us as a leader not only in Europe but globally in this field.”

The construction phase for the expanded data centres is expected to require up to 1,000 workers. Once operational, the facilities are projected to create a further 1,000 permanent jobs. In addition, the local authorities stand to benefit financially, with the regional government and the involved municipal councils set to share over five million euros from the land development rights.

Streamlined Processes and Additional Projects

The government of Jorge Azcón has enthusiastically welcomed the news, highlighting the unprecedented pace of the approval process. “The PIGA plans will move forward with a rhythm, speed, and momentum never before seen in Aragon,” López declared.

This accelerated approach is also being applied to other significant technology projects in the region. Monday’s gazette also included the initial approval for another major data centre, Project Rhodes, which is being promoted by the Blackstone group in Calatorao and has already secured its necessary power connections.

However, not all of Amazon’s planned projects are advancing at the same speed. A proposed data centre in La Cartuja Baja is still awaiting its own Plan of General Interest approval, a process currently being managed by Zaragoza City Council.

Environmental Concerns and Official Reassurance

The rapid expansion of data centres in Aragon has not been without its critics. Environmental organisations have voiced strong opposition to the AWS project, citing concerns over the significant projected increases in water consumption and the development of new medium-voltage power infrastructure.

Councillor López addressed these concerns directly, downplaying the protests and speaking on behalf of the companies involved. He insisted that sustainability remains a key priority. “These companies are making continuous advancements in water treatment,” he affirmed. “These investments will not compromise environmental sustainability criteria or lead to excessive water use.” He concluded by stating his belief that the resource management will be “highly rational.”