Microsoft can go ahead with construction of a new data centre in Middenmeer, Netherlands, according to public broadcaster NOS. The North Holland provincial authorities gave preliminary clearance, allowing the company to go ahead at its own risk, pending a definite permit.
Microsoft already has a large data centre in Middenmeer. The municipality Hollands Kroon had approved an extension but this was later blocked by the province, due to concerns about traffic in the area. The decision also follows growing pressure on energy systems from expanding data centres in the Amsterdam region.
Following further evaluation, the local urbanism authority decided to allow the building to go ahead. It must still hold a public consultation before a definitive permit is issued.
