Providing Digital Infrastructure to Meet Growing AI Demand

Mitsui O.S.K. Lines,, Hitachi, announced the signing of a Memorandum Of Understanding  for the development, operation, and commercialization of a “Floating Data Center  converted from a second-hand vessel.” Based on this MOU, the companies will conduct demand verification, review basic specifications and operational procedures, and carry out feasibility studies for commercialization of an FDC, with a view to commencing operations in 2027 or later. The project will focus primarily on Japan, where the Hitachi Group already has operational experience in land-based data centers, as well as Malaysia and the United States, where there are proven track records in providing services related to land-based data centers.

In recent years, demand for data centers has continued to grow alongside the rapid proliferation of generative AI, creating a need for diverse range of data center solutions that take into account factors such as location, the availability of water resources for power generation and cooling, surrounding infrastructure, and disaster risks.
Leveraging their respective experience, insights, and expertise, the three companies will assess the feasibility of commercializing FDC converted from a used vessel-a solution that eliminates the need to secure large tracts of land, enables short construction periods and mobility, and reduces environmental impact and costs through the reuse of existing hulls.