Behind Nscale and Nordkraft's Joint Venture for Data Centres

Nscale and Nordkraft are laying the foundations for a new AI data centre in northern Norway.

The companies have established Nordscale Operations AS, a jointly owned business that will oversee operations at Nscale's AI data centre in the Narvik region.

The data centre has been in construction since 2025. In forming Nordscale, the two companies have formalised their partnership with the new joint venture.

By combining Nscale's experience in AI infrastructure with Nordkraft's regional presence, the new company aims to deliver operational support while strengthening local capability.

Nordkraft is expected to provide operational services during the construction phase.

Building a long-term operating model

Nordscale is due to begin operations in 2026, taking responsibility for managing the facilities that support Nscale's AI data centre development in Narvik.

The joint venture provides Nscale a dedicated operating organisation rooted in the region where the infrastructure is being built.

It also expands Nordkraft's role beyond supporting construction into the long-term management of critical infrastructure.

Eirik Frantzen, CEO of Nordkraft AS, says: “We are confident that Nordscale will increase supplier efficiency by creating a Norwegian operator built on our complementary capabilities.

“Operation of critical infrastructure is one of Nordkraft core competencies, and with local roots we take responsibility for ensuring that this industry also contributes to jobs locally.

“This is the first example of how we can build industry in the wake of the AI wave.”

Alongside operating the site, Nordscale will recruit for operational and management positions across facilities, technical and corporate functions.

Roles are expected to include mechanical engineering, HR, HSE and wider operational support, with recruitment focused on the Narvik area.

Local supply chain in focus

The partnership also extends beyond direct employment. Nordscale plans to work with local and national suppliers across a range of operational services that support the running of modern data centres.

These include catering, cleaning, logistics, landscaping, snow removal, maintenance and specialist technical services.

The companies expect this approach to generate wider economic activity across the Narvik region while embedding local businesses into the facility's operating model.

Instead of relying just on external providers, the joint venture is intended to create a Norwegian operating organisation that works with businesses already established in the area.

Its aim is support both day-to-day site operations and long-term facilities management.

Strengthening regional capability

The announcement reflects a wider strategy for Nscale, pairing global AI infrastructure expertise with regional operational knowledge as new capacity comes online.

Stian Jenssen, Managing Director for Scandinavia at Nscale, says: “This partnership illustrates Nscale's commitment to Northern Norway and the importance of building long-term operational capability in the region with local partners.”