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ABS granted approval in principle to Samsung Heavy Industries for the design of a 50-megawatt floating data center, a proposal that brings digital infrastructure to the offshore environment and opens a new route to meet the growing processing demand associated with artificial intelligence.
The AIP certification confirms that ABS reviewed the design according to classification society requirements. This advances the project as a maritime solution designed to host data-intensive operations offshore, where the strain on local power grids has become an increasingly visible challenge.
A floating data center with a naval focus
Samsung Heavy Industries’ design utilizes standardized shipbuilding processes. Furthermore, it integrates design, manufacturing, and equipment installation in parallel to improve project efficiency and shorten delivery times.
According to the company, the unit incorporates its own power generation system. This feature aims to reduce dependence on land-based electricity and offer greater operational autonomy for high-energy-demand digital installations.
Gareth Burton, ABS’s senior vice president of Global Engineering, noted that the rapid growth of artificial intelligence creates a clear opportunity to support new infrastructure needs. In that context, moving data centers offshore could alleviate some of the strain on local power grids.
Meanwhile, Young-kyu Ahn, Chief Technology Officer of Samsung Heavy Industries, stated that floating data centers represent a new business model that connects shipbuilding with digital infrastructure. He also emphasized that their development, coupled with cleaner energy solutions, could set new standards for the global data market.
Source and photo: ABS