The Killellan AI Growth Zone represents a transformative, nationally significant initiative to establish a world-leading hub for AI-enabled hyperscale digital infrastructure, renewable energy systems, and regional economic revitalisation in Argyll, Scotland. Anchored at Killellan Farm near Dunoon, the project leverages an existing 184-acre industrially zoned site, transitioning from quarry operations to a digitally focused ecosystem that aligns with the UK Government's AI Growth Zone (AIGZ) ambitions.

Consortium Leadership and Strategic Partners

The project is led by Argyll Data Development Ltd and Argyll Energy Development Ltd, in collaboration with global technology and infrastructure leaders including Schneider Electric, Lenovo, CorPower Ocean, Invinity Energy Systems, Suir Engineering, and a range of academic and local governance partners, notably the University of Strathclyde and Argyll and Bute Council.

Site and Infrastructure Overview
• DevelopmentFootprint:184acreszonedfordigitalinfrastructure
• PhaseOneCapacity:100-600MW(scalableto>2GW)
• DeliveryStrategy:Private-sector-led,modular,andgrid-independentinearlyphases

Energy Strategy

To overcome grid constraints, the project will launch using on-site renewable energy systems, including wave, wind, solar, vanadium flow batteries, and hydrogen production. It will operate initially in island mode with scalable, future-proof infrastructure ready for long-term grid integration and the delivery of up to 10 GW of clean, connected energy.

Economic and Community Impact

Total Investment: £15 billion
Construction-Phase GVA: £3.12 billion
Annual Operational GVA: £734 million
Employment: ~2,020 construction jobs annually and 1,200 permanent operational roles

Additional benefits include:
• Majorinvestmentinregionalinfrastructure
• Regenerationofbrownfieldland
• Comprehensivelocaltrainingandjobcreationprogrammes
• OptionalCommunityBiodomeInitiativeforsustainabilityandeducation

AI Innovation and Skills Development

The project will contribute to the UK's AI leadership by enabling:

• Advancedcomputeinfrastructureforpublicandprivatesectoruse

• Real-timeAIintegrationacrossenergy,logistics,andinfrastructuresystems

• Place-based educational initiatives in partnership with Dunoon Grammar School and the Argyll & Bute Education Team

• Strategic collaboration with the University of Strathclyde on AI, energy systems, and workforce development

  Connectivity and Security

  To bolster national and international connectivity, the project includes marine fibre-optic infrastructure to Ireland and North America. Its scale and critical function will require formal engagement on critical infrastructure security, recognising its role in supporting sovereign data capabilities.

  Government Support Request

  To ensure timely delivery and unlock full value, the project seeks targeted support in six key areas: 1. Regulatoryflexibilitytoexpediteplanningapprovals
  2. Planningassistanceforoffshoreandmarineapplications
  3. AgencycoordinationwithNESO,DNOs,andnationalbodies

  4. Financialguidanceandinvestmentmatchmaking 5. Facilitationofmarinecableintegration
  6. Engagementonnationalinfrastructuresecurity

  The Killellan AI Growth Zone offers a unique, scalable, and strategically aligned opportunity to deliver cutting-edge digital infrastructure, renewable energy innovation, and inclusive economic regeneration. With government partnership, it will firmly position Scotland-and the UK-as a global leader in AI, sustainability, and next-generation infrastructure delivery.