Amazon faces up to seven-year delays connecting European data centers to the grid due to outdated infrastructure and permitting, slowing AI-driven expansion despite investments.

Amazon Web Services faces major delays in expanding its European data centers, with grid connection times stretching up to seven years—far longer than the two years needed to build facilities—due to aging infrastructure, complex permitting, and surging AI-driven power demand. These bottlenecks, especially severe in hubs like Frankfurt and London, are hindering growth despite investments in alternative energy. While the U.S. also experiences long waits, Europe’s situation is more acute. The European Commission has proposed a two-year cap on grid permits, but implementation is uncertain. Tech giants, including Amazon, Meta, and Google, are pushing for faster grid modernization through the GIGA coalition.