Samsung, Supermicro Plan Floating AI Data Centers Fueled by LNG
Samsung Heavy Industries, Supermicro, and Capital Clean Energy Carriers are collaborating to launch 50MW floating AI data centers. The facilities will use LNG-powered fuel cells and seawater cooling, offering an alternative to land-based centers facing grid connection challenges. The initiative aims to provide scalable AI infrastructure.
Key points
- Samsung Heavy Industries, Supermicro, and Greek shipowner Capital Clean Energy Carriers are partnering on 50MW floating AI data centers.
- These facilities will utilize LNG-fueled solid oxide fuel cells for power and seawater for cooling.
- The project aims to bypass land-based data center grid connection delays.
- Lloyd's Register is involved in regulation and certification of the floating data centers.
- Shipowners would purchase platforms and lease capacity to operators, similar to tanker charters.
Samsung Heavy Industries has announced plans to commercialize 50-megawatt floating AI data centers, in collaboration with Supermicro and Greek shipowner Capital Clean Energy Carriers. This initiative seeks to address the growing demand for AI computing power by offering an alternative to traditional land-based facilities that often face lengthy delays in securing grid connections.
The proposed data centers are designed to operate using liquefied natural gas (LNG) fueled solid oxide fuel cells for onboard power generation, supplemented by seawater cooling systems. This approach allows the facilities to be deployed in coastal waters or ports, drawing external power via subsea cables when moored or generating their own power independently.
Samsung Heavy Industries will manage the technology development and construction, while Capital Clean Energy Carriers will lead project sourcing and investment. Lloyd's Register is engaged to handle the crucial aspects of regulation and certification, ensuring the safety and compliance of these novel floating infrastructure projects. The model envisages shipowners acquiring the platforms and subsequently leasing capacity to AI operators on long-term contracts.
Sources
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