We have chosen Lefdal Mine Datacenter AS (LMD) as the strategic home for our data centre needs, supporting the national storage system, NIRD, and paving the way for future national supercomputers.
Placed within the depths of a disused mine in picturesque West Norway, Lefdal Mine Datacenter offers a unique blend of security and sustainability, making it an ideal setting for our critical national e-infrastructure systems.
Mine turned data centre
LMD uses the old Lefdal mine facilities located between Måløy and Nordfjordeid in Vestland county. This provides very high general and physical security for the computer systems placed there. The mine was previously used for the extraction of olivine.
Our commitment to environmental responsibility is at the heart of our e-infrastructure solutions. With every new acquisition, we prioritise eco-friendly practices. Our systems are powered by clean, green energy, and we harness the cooling waters of the fjord. It's not just about technology; it's about a sustainable, forward-looking future.
The first supercomputer is expected to be installed at the data centre in 2024. The existing national e-infrastructure systems are located at our partner universities and will remain there until they go out of service.
Boosting local business
LMD proudly partners with local businesses in West Norway, contributing significantly to the region's economic growth.
High-performance computer systems such as national supercomputers generate a lot of excess heat as the processors almost always reach 100% utilisation, day and night. The surplus energy provides considerable heat and requires cooling to avoid overheating. Data centres such as LMD, located close to a fjord, have a low energy cost for cooling because cold water can be taken from the fjord and the return water can be reused.
LMD has signed an agreement with Sjømatstaden, which operates marine food production nearby and will use return water from the data centre in its production.