Telenor Launches Norway’s First AI Factory with a Focus on Sustainability
Telenor, a telecommunications provider with a 170-year legacy, has recently announced the launch of Norway’s first AI factory. This strategic move highlights the company’s commitment to sustainable and sovereign data processing. The AI factory, which became operational in November, is a significant milestone in the advancement of green computing initiatives and data sovereignty.
The primary goal of the AI factory is to process sensitive data securely on Norwegian soil. Developed in under a year, this facility aligns with Telenor’s dedication to environmental responsibility. It caters to various industries, including logistics and public services, offering sustainable and secure sovereign AI solutions.
In addition to the AI factory, Telenor plans to construct a data center in Oslo that operates on renewable energy. The excess heat generated by the data center will be repurposed for district heating in nearby residential areas. This initiative not only supports green computing but also reflects the integration of environmental considerations into technological advancements.
The sovereign AI infrastructure provided by Telenor’s factory is crucial for nations aiming to manage sensitive data while achieving sustainability goals. Kaaren Hilsen, Telenor’s Chief Innovation Officer and Head of the AI Factory, emphasized that the factory’s role extends beyond infrastructure development. It is about “helping move society forward” with a focus on responsibility and sustainability.
Telenor’s commitment to sustainability and AI is further highlighted by Kaaren Hilsen’s upcoming session at the NVIDIA GTC, a leading global AI conference. The session titled “Accelerating Sovereign AI Factories: Insights from Telco Case Studies” will explore the role of telecom companies in becoming sovereign AI factories.
According to a survey conducted by NVIDIA, 84% of telecommunications professionals plan to offer generative AI solutions, primarily as software-as-a-service and developer platforms. This trend underscores the growing importance of AI in the telecommunications sector.
By prioritizing green computing and data sovereignty, Telenor’s AI factory sets a precedent for leveraging AI to address both technological and environmental objectives. It represents a significant step towards combining technological innovation with sustainability in a world grappling with environmental challenges.
