Mitsui O.S.K. Lines (MOL), and Hitachi have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to develop and commercialise a Floating Data Centre (FDC), converting a second-hand vessel into a massive data hub.
The companies say that they will begin by conducting feasibility studies with the aim of commencing operations in 2027 at the earliest, focusing on Japan, Malaysia, and the United States.
The project aims to meet the increasing demand for digital infrastructure driven by the rapid growth of generative Artificial Intelligence (AI), using existing ship hulls to avoid the need for large land acquisitions in areas where infrastructure or space is limited. For example, a car carrier with a floor area of roughly 54,000 square metres would provide space comparable to one of the largest land-based data centres in Japan.
The conversion of an existing vessel is expected to take approximately one year, which the partners claim could shorten development periods by up to three years compared to conventional land-based facilities.
An FDC provides several potential operational advantages, including the ability to use seawater or river water for cooling to reduce overall power consumption. Because the centres are floating structures, they can also be relocated to different regions based on shifts in market demand.
MOL will be responsible for planning vessel conversions, coordinating with port authorities, and defining maritime operational requirements such as mooring and maintenance. Hitachi and Hitachi Systems will oversee the technical design and installation of the data centre, including networking and security.
