The institutional framework for licensing data centres in Greece has been finalised, marking a significant step in the country’s ambitions to enhance its digital infrastructure, the Ministry of Development announced on Wednesday.
A Joint Ministerial Decision (JMD) recently published, in tandem with an earlier law, sets out clear regulations for the establishment and operation of data centres. According to the ministry, JMD no. 96038/2024—signed in December—alongside law 5069/2023, defines data centres based on the services they provide (to third parties or for private use) and their capacity thresholds.
Under the framework, data centres with a capacity exceeding 200 kW (for third-party services) or 1,000 kW (for private use) are required to submit disclosure statements and comply with all regulatory requirements. Smaller facilities below these thresholds are exempt from disclosure but must still adhere to legal obligations concerning land use, facility standards, fire safety, and other regulations. The new rules will come into effect on 1 March 2025.
Deputy Development Minister Anna Mani-Papadimitriou emphasised the strategic importance of the initiative, stating, “Following the direction of Prime Minister Kyriakos Mitsotakis, Greece is emerging as an international data hub, ready to welcome leading companies from around the world. It is establishing itself as a key player in the new digital age.”
This development highlights Greece’s commitment to modernising its digital landscape and attracting substantial investment in the data technology sector, further strengthening its role in the global digital economy.