Lloyd’s Register (LR) has signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) for a Joint Development Project (JDP) with Samsung Heavy Industries (SHI) and Capital Clean Energy Carriers Corp to develop a floating data centre (FDC) design.
The JDP covers a concept that uses proven shipbuilding methods to create scalable offshore digital infrastructure that offers an alternative to land-based facilities where limits on space, power, and cooling can become difficult.
“This FDC concept represents a natural extension of our shipbuilding capabilities into the digital infrastructure sector,” said Young-kyu Ahn, Chief Technology Officer at Samsung Heavy Industries.
“Combined with sustainable energy solutions, it will set new standards in the global data market and serve as a key driver of future growth.”
The project will use standardised shipbuilding processes to reduce delivery times while integrating an onboard power generation system to ease pressure on shore grids and utilising seawater cooling. LR will provide technical assurance on the feasibility of the design, including its structural integrity, safety considerations, and the integration of onboard power generation.
“This agreement highlights how owners and yards are rethinking asset strategy as digital infrastructure demand accelerates,” said Nick Brown, CEO of Lloyd’s Register.
“Early-stage assurance will be important as projects scale, helping developers de-risk complex designs, secure investment and bring new offshore assets to market with confidence in their safety, performance and long-term efficiency.”
Lloyd’s Register Advisory has also signed a separate MOU with SHI at Posidonia to support the development and commercialisation of the FDC designs. This secondary agreement will focus on feasibility, techno-economic modelling, and business case development for the floating data centre concept.
