The Northern Clouds conference explores the Nordic and Arctic regions’ emerging role as a key digital hub of the future, along with the complex challenges involved in developing digital infrastructure in the region.
The conference will take place on September 16 in Copenhagen. Registration is required.
About the conference
As all parts of society become increasingly digitalized, the demand for data storage and processing continues to grow. Data-intensive technologies such as artificial intelligence demand high-speed data traffic between countries and continents, as well as significant computing power and data storage capacity.
There is a growing interest in expanding and establishing digital infrastructure in the Nordic and Arctic region. The regions’ unique resources – including a cold climate, seemingly abundant renewable and cheap energy, and access to freshwater – make them attractive to both local and global technology companies seeking to leverage these advantages. While this development presents new opportunities for local communities, it also raises complex questions around sustainability, security, and local control.
The conference focuses on how to secure a sustainable digital future in the Nordic and Arctic regions. We bring together policymakers, researchers, and industry stakeholders from across the Arctic and Nordic countries to discuss strategic opportunities and technological solutions that can both strengthen the regions’ digital capacity and resilience.
The conference will be held in English.
The conference is structured around four sessions, each exploring key aspects of developing digital infrastructure. Leading experts and researchers will share their insights, provide an overview of the current situation, and highlight future perspectives.
Connecting communities
We explore the backbone of digital infrastructure – from satellites and submarine cables to landing stations and data centers – and examine the crucial role local communities play in ensuring access, resilience, and equitable development. The session also considers the opportunities and challenges shaping connectivity in the Nordic and Arctic regions.
Datacenters on ice
Data centers have become a key component of the global internet infrastructure, and interest from hyperscalers in the Nordic and Arctic regions is growing rapidly. In this session, we examine what massive digital investments mean for the regions and address the critical questions of sovereignty and control.
Robust and Secure
How can we ensure an internet capable of withstanding technical failures, political pressure, and emerging threats? This session focuses on resilience and security in the Nordic and Arctic internet infrastructure, exploring how collaboration, regulation, and governance can strengthen the safety and robustness of critical digital infrastructure in a rapidly changing world.
Powering a sustainable internet
The rapid expansion of digital infrastructure creates new demands on energy supply. How can we ensure the internet functions without compromising the environment? This session explores the interaction between energy and digital infrastructure, examining strategies, innovative solutions, and policies that can pave the way for a greener and more resilient digital future in the Nordic and Arctic regions.