On 24 April 2026, EDF launched a new call for expressions of interest (CEI) on the site of a former thermal power plant in the communes of Bouchain and Mastaing to host a high-power data center. 

To support digital companies in the development of their projects, EDF offers:

  • Land that can be quickly mobilised, with strong potential for electrical connection, significantly reducing completion times.

  • Personalised support throughout all the necessary steps for their project, from design to commissioning.

  • Electricity supply and service offerings tailored to meet the specific needs of interested operators.

This CEI aims to select digital companies that can design, build and operate high-power data centers. At the end of the CEI, the winner will be selected on the basis of objective, transparent and non-discriminatory criteria, including: 

  •  A solid technical, legal and financial structure.
  • A project compatible with the characteristics of the site and the existing constraints, particularly in terms of environmental footprint.

 This CEI will not be involve the sale of land but of a building lease.

Indicative timetable for this CEI

  • 24 April 2026: launch of the CEI.
  • 11 May 2026: deadline to apply to participate in the CEI.
  • 25 May 2026: deadline for submission of the initial proposal by the Project Leaders.
  • 9 July 2026: deadline for submission of the second proposal by the Project Leaders.
  • Q3-Q4 2026: signing of the building lease agreement with the selected Winner.

EDF reserves the right to select a winner as soon as the initial proposals have been submitted and to adjust this timetable.

Applications for this CEI are now closed.