The EU’s €20 billion plan to build five large AI data centres is faltering as delays and funding uncertainty are deterring potential private partners, people familiar with the matter said. A tender process originally slated for May is now expected to start in July, and financing is planned in two tranches scheduled for 2028 and 2030 under a new EU budget still under negotiation. Sources said funding gaps mean at most two of the five centres are likely to receive money before the new budget takes

The EU’s €20 billion plan to build five large AI data centres is faltering as delays and funding uncertainty are deterring potential private partners, people familiar with the matter said. A tender process originally slated for May is now expected to start in July, and financing is planned in two tranches scheduled for 2028 and 2030 under a new EU budget still under negotiation. Sources said funding gaps mean at most two of the five centres are likely to receive money before the new budget takes effect in 2028. Unclear demand prospects and uncertainty over subsidy timing are cited as key reasons private investors are hesitating.