Germany’s first YEXIO data centre opens in Heiligenhaus, marking a milestone for sustainable digital infrastructure

Germany’s first YEXIO data centre opens in Heiligenhaus, marking a milestone for sustainable digital infrastructure

(IN BRIEF) Germany’s first YEXIO data centre has officially opened in Heiligenhaus, establishing the region as a pioneer in sustainable digital infrastructure. Developed by HOCHTIEF PPP Solutions and Palladio Partners, the facility is the first in a planned nationwide network of 15 decentralised edge data centres. The new site provides low-latency, secure, and local data processing for enterprises, public institutions, and technology providers, supporting Industry 4.0, IoT, and AI applications. Built with mass-timber construction, a green façade, and an energy-efficient cooling system, the project also reuses waste heat to supply the local swimming pool. HOCHTIEF and Palladio Partners plan to expand the YEXIO network, with five locations already underway. Local officials and investors hailed the project as a model for combining innovation, sustainability, and economic competitiveness.

(PRESS RELEASE) MADRID, 12-Sep-2025 — /EuropaWire/ — Heiligenhaus has taken a decisive step toward becoming a digital pioneer with the official commissioning of Germany’s first YEXIO data centre – a landmark project that sets new benchmarks for sustainable digital infrastructure. Delivered by HOCHTIEF PPP Solutions and Palladio Partners, the facility marks the launch of a nationwide network of 15 decentralised edge data centres. This milestone gives the Düsseldorf–Essen–Wuppertal region access to cutting-edge digital infrastructure that will support both economic strength and digital resilience.

The Heiligenhaus facility, located on a 9,000-square-metre site in the Innovation Park, will serve as a central hub for next-generation digital services. Yorizon, the main user of the new site, will deliver sustainable cloud computing and green IT solutions for software providers, enterprises, and public institutions. By keeping data processing close to its users, the new centre reduces latency, strengthens sovereignty, and supports critical applications in Industry 4.0, the Internet of Things, and artificial intelligence.

Sustainability was a guiding principle throughout the project. HOCHTIEF used mass-timber construction, cutting the carbon footprint by 600 tonnes compared to traditional building methods. A green façade promotes biodiversity, while an advanced water-cooling system boosts energy efficiency. Waste heat from operations is used to supply the municipal swimming pool in Heiligenhaus, a model example of intelligent sector coupling.

“With YEXIO, we bring digital capability to where it is needed – directly into the regions. This strengthens competitiveness, ensures data sovereignty and is sustainable,” said Bernd Holtwick, Managing Director of HOCHTIEF PPP Solutions GmbH.

The opening comes at a time of soaring demand for data centre capacity. The global market is expected to grow nearly 20 percent annually through 2030, while the edge data centre market alone is forecast to rise from USD 13 billion in 2024 to USD 48 billion in 2033, according to IMARC. To meet this demand, HOCHTIEF and Palladio Partners plan to develop a nationwide network of YEXIO facilities. Five sites are already secured or under construction, with HOCHTIEF managing planning, construction, operation, and asset management. Operations are carried out in cooperation with Thomas-Krenn.AG, while Palladio Partners contributes capital, structuring expertise, and regional partnerships.

Michael Beck, Mayor of Heiligenhaus, emphasized the local significance:
“Commissioning the YEXIO data centre is a significant step for our innovation park and the entire city. It underlines our commitment to combining technological progress with sustainability. The location offers companies that value close-to-site and secure data processing an attractive infrastructure and therefore strengthens our position in regional competition.”

Dr Bernd Kreuter, Managing Partner at Palladio Partners, added:
“The YEXIO data centre is a prime example of how, together with investors and a strong partner such as HOCHTIEF, we are actively shaping the modernisation of critical infrastructure and setting sustainable standards.”

With decades of expertise in delivering large-scale infrastructure projects, HOCHTIEF has already developed data centre projects totalling around six gigawatts worldwide. The launch of YEXIO further consolidates its position as a leading provider in this rapidly growing sector while reinforcing Germany’s role in sustainable digital transformation.

Media Contact:

email: pdd@grupoacs.com

SOURCE: Actividades de Construcción y Servicios (ACS)