VivoPower starts 40 MW AI data centre conversion in Mo i Rana

VivoPower has begun construction to convert the first phase of its data centre site in Mo i Rana, northern Norway, into a 40 MW AI data centre, the Nasdaq-listed company said in a press release on 12 October.

Site works will be delivered by Øijord & Aanes Entreprenørforretning AS, a Mo i Rana contractor that has operated in the region for more than 60 years. Demolition, enabling works and the main building superstructure will be carried out by local contractors under Norwegian planning and building rules. VivoPower also names IMTAS, an engineering and fabrication provider at Mo Industripark, and TH Blikk AS, a building, façade and roofing contractor, among its local partners.

These packages come ahead of the full mechanical and electrical fit-out. VivoPower says it has run a tender review with international data centre supply chain partners and expects to award and announce that contract shortly.

The company completed its acquisition of the operational Mo i Rana data centre on 21 April 2026 and has enrolled 30 MW of the existing facility in grid balancing services. It has selected what it describes as a global AI industry leader as preferred tenant, without naming the company, and says the design will follow that tenant's requirements.

The conversion is being designed to capture waste heat from the cooling systems, subject to technical and commercial feasibility. VivoPower is working with a local district heating provider and European specialist firms on possible uses, including heat for homes and businesses in Mo i Rana and for heat-intensive activities such as land-based aquaculture and greenhouse food production. No definitive agreements have been signed.

"We have deliberately engaged with the local construction supply chain," said Shane Whelan, Chief Real Estate Officer at VivoPower. The release gives no ready-for-service date. The company says it aims to deliver "as expeditiously as possible" without compromising quality and safety.

For Nordic suppliers and contractors, the main open package is the mechanical and electrical fit-out. The release also lists factors that could affect the timeline, including the demolition licence, the building permit from Rana municipality and energisation approvals. The next steps to watch are the fit-out award, a signed tenant agreement and any heat reuse contract.

Source: VivoPower via GlobeNewswire

This article was written with AI assistance and reviewed by the SDC-Platform editorial team before publication.