Shanghai has unveiled a groundbreaking leap in sustainable technology with the launch of the world’s first commercial underwater data center (UDC) powered by offshore wind energy. The project, situated near the Lin-gang Special Area, merges renewable energy infrastructure with cutting-edge computing to meet rising global demand for eco-friendly digital solutions.
Innovative Design for a Greener Future
The facility, developed through a partnership between the Lin-gang Special Area administrative committee, Shanghai Lingang Investment Holding Group, and tech firm Hicloud, uses seawater cooling and wind energy to achieve near-zero carbon emissions. By submerging modular data units offshore, the UDC reduces refrigeration energy consumption by up to 40% compared to traditional land-based centers.
Phased Implementation & Economic Impact
Hicloud plans to invest 1.6 billion yuan ($222.7 million) across two phases. The initial 2.3 MW demonstration unit, approved as a national green innovation model, will begin operations in September. The second phase aims to scale capacity to 24 MW, sourcing over 90% of power from offshore wind farms while maintaining an industry-leading power usage effectiveness (PUE) below 1.15.
Global Implications
Chen Jinshan, head of the Lin-gang Special Area committee, emphasized the project’s role in advancing cross-border data flows and AI development. “This fusion of green infrastructure and intelligent connectivity positions Shanghai as a global hub for sustainable tech,” he said. The UDC also addresses land scarcity challenges, freeing urban space for other critical uses.
With its dual focus on energy efficiency and scalable design, Shanghai’s UDC sets a new benchmark for green computing worldwide.
