Revolution in AI! China Expands Its Underwater Data Center

China is making waves in the world of artificial intelligence (AI) and sustainable computing with its bold move to expand the world’s first commercial underwater data center. This futuristic facility, operated by HiCloud (a division of Highlander), recently added a powerful new 18-meter module off the coast of Lingshui, in Hainan Province.

This expansion is more than a technological upgrade—it marks a significant step forward in energy-efficient AI computing, environmental sustainability, and global digital infrastructure. But what exactly does this mean for professionals in AI, cloud computing, and data center operations?

Revolution in AI

China’s underwater data center is a game-changer in AI, cloud computing, and green infrastructure. By innovating where the land meets the sea, HiCloud is not just solving a tech challenge—they’re reshaping the future of global data operations.

This model of data center architecture offers a low-impact, high-efficiency, and scalable solution to one of tech’s biggest environmental dilemmas. It’s not only about what’s under the sea—it’s about what’s ahead for all of us.

Why Underwater Data Centers Matter

Data centers are the backbone of modern digital life. From video streaming to smart cities to artificial intelligence, everything depends on them. But there’s a challenge: traditional data centers consume massive amounts of energy, especially for cooling.

That’s where underwater data centers come in. By placing servers in ocean environments, operators like HiCloud can use natural seawater to keep machines cool, cutting down energy costs and carbon emissions dramatically.

Microsoft tested this idea with its Project Natick in 2018 off the coast of Scotland, but eventually shelved it. In contrast, China’s HiCloud has now taken the concept mainstream—and commercial.

How the Technology Works

1. Structure and Deployment

The newest module is 18 meters long and houses 400 high-performance servers. It connects to a shore station via fiber-optic cables, ensuring fast and stable communication with land-based systems.

2. Natural Cooling

Using the ocean as a cooling agent reduces reliance on mechanical HVAC systems. This approach is not only eco-friendly but also reduces maintenance costs and power usage effectiveness (PUE), a standard metric in the industry.

3. Performance & Scalability

The center supports up to 7,000 DeepSeek queries per second. That’s roughly equal to the processing power of 30,000 high-end gaming PCs operating simultaneously. Imagine training a complex AI model or simulating real-world industrial systems—now faster and more sustainable.

4. Disaster Resilience

Underwater modules are designed to be earthquake-resistant, shielded from typhoons and fires, and can maintain stable temperatures year-round. This enhances uptime reliability in extreme conditions.

Use Cases: Where AI Meets the Ocean

This underwater facility is not just a scientific novelty. It serves real-world commercial applications:

AI Model Training

Companies are using the center to train machine learning models at scale. Thanks to lower energy costs and consistent temperatures, this can be done more efficiently and affordably.

Industrial Simulation

Complex simulations for manufacturing or logistics benefit from high-performance compute environments. This allows faster prototyping and testing.

Game Development

Rendering 3D environments and running simulations for large-scale games requires significant computing power—something the underwater setup delivers.

Marine Science

Researchers are also using the system for oceanographic data analysis, making it a perfect example of tech meeting nature.

Real-World Benefits for Professionals

If you’re in IT, cloud infrastructure, AI development, or environmental engineering, here’s why this matters:

• Energy Efficiency: Reduce operational costs with lower cooling expenses.
• Sustainability Compliance: Meet ESG goals with greener tech.
• High Performance: Leverage HPC for faster AI model deployment.
• Scalable Deployment: Modular structure means easy scaling with minimal land use.
• Future-Proofing Infrastructure: Prepare for global trends in green computing and smart urban planning.

“It’s not just a cool concept. It’s a viable solution for the future of sustainable computing,” says Highlander’s spokesperson.

Step-by-Step Guide to How It Works

Step 1: Design & Build

• High-performance servers are packed into watertight, corrosion-resistant modules.

Step 2: Submersion

• The modules are lowered into the ocean and anchored securely.

Step 3: Connection

• Data and power cables connect the module to a nearby shore station.

Step 4: Operation & Maintenance

• Servers operate in controlled environments, with remote monitoring and robotic maintenance options.

Step 5: End-of-Life

• Once the hardware lifecycle ends, the module is retrieved, refurbished, or recycled.

Global Implications and Future Potential

Environmental Impact

Compared to land-based centers, underwater facilities could save millions of kilowatt-hours annually. As global temperatures rise, this becomes a viable alternative for reducing tech’s carbon footprint.

Industry Growth

According to Statista, global data center energy use is projected to hit 1,000 TWh by 2026. Innovations like this can shift that trajectory.

Geopolitical Significance

China’s leap in underwater data technology enhances its position in the global AI race, challenging traditional cloud giants like AWS, Azure, and Google Cloud.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is an underwater data center?

An underwater data center is a server facility deployed in the ocean, using seawater for cooling.

2. Why does China need this?

To meet rising demand for AI computing while reducing environmental impact.

3. Is it better than land-based centers?

For cooling efficiency and sustainability, yes. However, it requires advanced marine engineering.

4. How is it powered?

Via undersea cables connected to renewable energy sources onshore.

5. Is it safe?

Yes. The modules are built with corrosion-proof materials and earthquake-resistant structures.

6. Can other countries adopt this?

Absolutely. Coastal nations with advanced infrastructure can replicate the model, provided they adhere to marine environmental regulations.

7. How long can a module stay underwater?

Each module is designed for 5 to 10 years of submersion with minimal maintenance.