Data Centers in Rotterdam

Rotterdam – Europe’s Premier Logistics & Connectivity Hub

Executive Summary

Rotterdam is a critical digital gateway for companies tied to logistics, shipping, and international trade. Its dense network infrastructure, combined with proximity to major European markets, provides a compelling alternative to Amsterdam for deploying resilient, low-latency applications. This market is ideal for enterprises that require robust connectivity to serve the Benelux region, Germany, and the UK.

Rotterdam: At A Glance

Network & Connectivity Ecosystem

Rotterdam’s connectivity is defined by its strategic location and proximity to one of the world's most connected cities, Amsterdam. The market provides a strong foundation for any digital-first business.

Carrier Density & Carrier Neutrality With 17 data centers and over 9 network providers present as of September 2025, Rotterdam offers a competitive and carrier-neutral environment. This ensures resilient connectivity options and competitive pricing for transit and transport.

Direct Cloud On-Ramps There are no direct public cloud on-ramps within Rotterdam itself, as of September 2025. The primary access point for dedicated cloud connections is Amsterdam, which hosts on-ramps for all major hyperscalers. Businesses in Rotterdam secure low-latency access to these cloud regions through private network interconnects (PNI) and high-speed wavelength services.

Internet Exchange Points (IXPs) While most peering occurs privately, Rotterdam benefits immensely from its proximity to Amsterdam, home to AMS-IX, one of the largest internet exchanges in the world. This allows for efficient and low-cost traffic exchange with hundreds of global networks.

Bare Metal Bare metal server options are readily available from providers in the region. Companies like Leaseweb offer dedicated server solutions, providing the performance and control needed for demanding workloads.

Power Analysis

Average Cost Of Power Industrial electricity rates typically range from €0.16 to €0.21/kWh, as of September 2025. The Netherlands' energy mix is comprised of approximately 40% renewables, 56% fossil fuels, and 4% nuclear. These power costs are competitive for Western Europe and support predictable operational budgets.

Power Grid Reliability The Dutch power grid is known for its exceptional reliability and stability. Data centers in the Rotterdam area are supported by a well-engineered grid with redundant substations, ensuring high uptime for mission-critical infrastructure.

Market Access, Business & Tax Climate

Proximity To Key Business Districts Data centers in Rotterdam are strategically located to serve the Port of Rotterdam, the largest seaport in Europe. This proximity is critical for logistics, manufacturing, and international trade companies that depend on real-time data processing and connectivity.

Regional Market Reach From Rotterdam, organizations can effectively serve the entire population of the Netherlands and Belgium with minimal latency. The market also provides excellent connectivity to key economic centers in western Germany, the UK, and France.

Tax Advantage For Data Centers The Netherlands does not currently offer specific tax breaks or financial incentives for data center construction or operation. The country's stable economic and political climate provides a predictable and attractive environment for investment without targeted incentives.

Natural Disaster Risk

Rotterdam has a low overall disaster risk profile, with a global INFORM Risk score of 2.5 out of 10, as of September 2025. While the general risk is minimal, the region's geography makes it susceptible to specific, well-managed environmental hazards.

The most significant natural risks include:

• Coastal Flood: The highest individual risk factor, reflecting the city's coastal, low-lying location.
• River Flood: A considerable risk due to the Rhine-Meuse-Scheldt river delta.
• Earthquake: A very low but present seismic risk.

The Netherlands is a world leader in flood management, with extensive dikes, barriers, and water management systems designed to protect critical infrastructure. Other natural risks like droughts or tropical cyclones are negligible.