Article Date: 2026
Floating data centres are gaining attention as a potential solution to rising demand for digital infrastructure, particularly driven by artificial intelligence and data-intensive applications.
In Japan, Hitachi Ltd, together with Mitsui O.S.K. Lines, is exploring the conversion of ships into floating data centres. The concept aims to reduce deployment timelines and address land constraints, while leveraging seawater cooling to improve energy efficiency.
At the same time, Keppel is positioning floating data centres as part of its broader strategy to support AI infrastructure and digitalisation, with plans to advance its own floating facility.
Floating data centres offer several advantages, including reduced reliance on land, modular deployment, and access to natural cooling. However, they also face challenges such as marine environmental exposure, corrosion risks, and the need for stable power and connectivity.
The developments reflect a broader trend toward offshore and hybrid infrastructure systems that integrate energy and digital capabilities to meet growing global demand.
Source: MSN (TechRadar) / The Straits Times