Jog Hiller
February 27, 2025 10:09
Telenor launched Norway’s first AI factory, highlighting sustainable, sovereign data processing aimed at improving green computing and data sovereignty.
Telenor has announced the launch of Norway’s first AI factory. This is a strategic move that highlights the company’s commitment to sustainable and sovereign data processing. The facility, which operated in November, marks a significant milestone in green computing initiatives and advances in data sovereignty, according to a report by the (nvidia blog) (https://blogs.nvidia.com/blog/telenor-ai-factory/).
Sustainable data processing
Developed within a year, the AI ​​factory is designed to safely process sensitive data in Norwegian soils. The move coincides with Telenol’s 170-year legacy and communications provider, highlighting its commitment to environmental responsibility. The factory serves a wide range of industries, including logistics and public services, providing sustainable and safe sovereign AI solutions.
Commitment to the Green Initiative
Telenol’s commitment to sustainability is further demonstrated by plans to build a data center in Oslo. The facility operates on renewable energy and excessive heat is reused due to district heating in nearby residential areas. This initiative not only supports green computing, but also reflects the broader trend of integrating environmental considerations into technological advancements.
Empowering the nation with sovereign AI
The sovereign AI infrastructure provided by Telenor’s factory is crucial for countries that seek to manage sensitive data while meeting sustainability goals. Kaaren Hilsen, the Chief Innovation Officer at Telenol and head of the AI ​​factory, emphasized that the role of the factory goes beyond infrastructure development. It is about “helping society advance” with a focus on responsibility and sustainability.
Future outlook and industry insights
Hilsen will share more insights at the leading AI conference, Nvidia GTC, in a session entitled “Acelerating Sovereign AI Factory: Insights from the Telco Case Study.” This session explores the role of telecommunications companies in becoming a sovereign AI factory.
In related developments, a survey conducted by NVIDIA revealed that 84% of telecommunications experts will be offering generative AI solutions, primarily software as software and developer platforms. This trend underscores the growing importance of AI in the communications sector.
As the world continues to tackle environmental challenges, Telenol’s AI factory represents a key step in combining innovation with sustainability. By prioritizing green computing and data sovereignty, Telenor sets precedents for how states can leverage AI to address both technological and environmental objectives.
Image source: ShutterStock
