Jakarta, INTI – Maritime technology innovation in China is drawing global attention as Highlander, a technology company, develops a subsea data center off the coast of Shanghai. The main issue being addressed is the high energy consumption for server cooling, one of the biggest challenges in the era of artificial intelligence (AI). The proposed solution is to submerge server capsules in the ocean, using passive currents to maintain low temperatures. The project is now in its final construction phase at Nantong shipyard and is scheduled to be submerged around mid-October 2025. This initial demonstration will be among the world’s first commercial trials. Using this method, Highlander claims that energy consumption for cooling can be reduced by up to 90 percent compared to conventional land-based data centers. The initiative also represents a tangible step toward combining energy efficiency with cutting-edge AI technology.
Passive Cooling as the Key to Efficiency
One of the main advantages of subsea data centers is passive cooling. Ocean currents naturally keep the server capsules at low temperatures without the need for large fans or energy-intensive water cooling systems. Yang Ye, Vice President of Highlander, emphasized that this approach allows nearly 90 percent energy savings for cooling compared to land-based data centers. This method is not only efficient but also demonstrates the potential for a future revolution in data center technology.
Commercial Trial and Technical Challenges
The server capsules currently being assembled at Nantong shipyard will become one of the world’s first commercial trials. While promising, the technology faces complex technical challenges such as water pressure, seawater corrosion, underwater maintenance, and deep-sea optical connectivity. Moreover, even though passive cooling is effective, power supply for servers, data traffic management, and physical security remain major concerns that need to be addressed.
Digital Transformation in the AI Era
The concept of subsea data centers is not entirely new. Microsoft tested similar technology off the coast of Scotland in 2018. However, Highlander’s project represents one of the most concrete commercial efforts to date. The initiative demonstrates how technological innovation can deliver energy efficiency while supporting global AI development.
Conclusion:
Highlander’s development of subsea data centers illustrates how modern technology can provide energy-efficient solutions in the AI era. With passive cooling and upcoming commercial trials, the project marks a tangible step toward digital transformation, although technical and environmental challenges still need to be addressed.
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