- Singapore Moves Toward Greener AI with Modular Seawater-Cooled Data Centres.
- MPA and Firmus Sign MoU to Study Eco-Friendly AI Factories Along Waterfront.
- Innovating at the Water’s Edge: MPA and Firmus Collaborate on Sustainable AI Compute.
The Maritime and Port Authority of Singapore (MPA) has partnered with Firmus Technologies, a local technology company specialising in energy-efficient, AI-driven infrastructure. Together, they’ve signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) to explore the creation of sustainable, modular AI factories that utilise seawater for cooling. The MoU was officially signed by MPA’s Chief Executive, Mr. Teo Eng Dih, and Mr. Tim Rosenfield, Co-CEO of Firmus Technologies, reports MPA.
Focusing on Scalable, Seawater-Cooled AI Factories
This partnership focuses on researching and testing scalable AI infrastructure that leverages seawater cooling systems to enhance energy efficiency. When we talk about AI factories, we’re referring to high-performance data centres built for the large-scale training and deployment of AI models, which demand a lot of computing power and effective cooling solutions. The study will look into how feasible it is to set up modular versions of this infrastructure along Singapore’s waterfront to keep up with the growing need for computing resources.
MPA to Offer Technical Guidance and Regulatory Oversight
As the authority overseeing maritime and port activities, MPA will lend its support to the study by providing technical and planning expertise. This will help ensure that the design and deployment of the infrastructure meet navigational safety and environmental standards. Their guidance will cover:
- The placement of seawater intakes
- Management of water discharges
- Alignment with long-term coastal and maritime development plans
- Compliance with the Prevention of Pollution of the Sea Act
- Requirements for Environmental Impact Analysis
Engaging Local Institutions and Industry Stakeholders
MPA and Firmus Technologies are also planning to involve local research institutions and industry stakeholders in this study. The goal is to foster a collaborative and inclusive approach to developing sustainable AI infrastructure.
Statement from MPA Chief Executive
Mr Teo Eng Dih, Chief Executive, MPA, said, “By working with Firmus at the early study stage, we hope to ensure that future developments involving sea-based cooling systems to support AI infrastructure are well-considered from the outset – balancing innovation with safety and the needs of Singapore as a global hub port.”
Statement from Firmus Technologies Co-CEO
Mr Tim Rosenfield, Co-Chief Executive Officer, Firmus Technologies, said, “This collaboration with MPA marks a significant opportunity to explore how scalable AI compute can be delivered through sustainable, maritime-adjacent systems. Firmus is committed to advancing high-efficiency AI infrastructure with minimal environmental overhead. We look forward to contributing our technical expertise to support Singapore’s long-term digital and sustainability ambitions.”
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Source: MPA
