Floating Nuclear Data Centers Proposed to Power AI Growth

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  • ABS Explores Offshore Nuclear-Powered AI Data Centres
  • Nuclear Barges Could Ease Grid Strain from AI Boom
  • New Study Details Design of Floating Nuclear Data Centres

As the world’s energy needs skyrocket, driven by the rapid expansion of AI and cloud computing, our energy grid is feeling the strain. One innovative solution on the horizon is the concept of floating nuclear-powered data centres operating offshore, reports ABS.

A New Study Looks into Floating Nuclear-Powered Data Centres

Recent research from ABS and Herbert Engineering takes a closer look at the promise of floating data centres powered by small modular reactors (SMRs). The report, titled Pathways to a Low-Carbon Future Floating Nuclear Power Data Centre, discusses the design and operational factors involved in placing these facilities in coastal waters or large river estuaries, utilising the surrounding water to cool both the servers and the reactors.

A Generational Opportunity

“The intersection of new nuclear technologies and rapidly growing AI capabilities represents a generational opportunity to power humanity’s future. As demand for data centers increases, moving them offshore and powering them with onboard nuclear energy could mitigate certain risks and reduce the strain on local grids,” said Christopher J. Wiernicki, ABS Chairman and CEO.

Key Design Considerations Outlined

This study provides essential insights into:

  1. Heat and energy management
  2. Weight distribution
  3. Structural integrity
  4. Reactor and server integration

These findings are intended to guide the development of future regulations and standards for floating nuclear design and deployment.

Building on Prior Offshore Nuclear Research

This report builds on the earlier work of ABS and Herbert Engineering in the field of nuclear marine applications, which includes:

  1. Pathways to a Low-Carbon Future: Floating Nuclear Power Plant
  2. Pathways to a Low-Carbon Future: LNG Carrier Nuclear Ship Concept Design

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Source: ABS