MOL and Hitachi explore floating data centre concept

Mitsui OSK Lines (MOL), in partnership with Hitachi and Hitachi Systems, has signed a memorandum of understanding to develop floating data centres (FDCs) by converting existing vessels.

The initiative aims to address the rapid growth in data demand driven by artificial intelligence, while offering a flexible and energy-efficient alternative to traditional land-based infrastructure.

Floating data centres utilise seawater for cooling, significantly reducing energy consumption associated with thermal management. They also eliminate the need for large land areas and can be repositioned according to shifting demand.

Initial feasibility studies will assess demand, technical specifications, and operational frameworks, with potential deployment targeted from 2027 onwards.

The project will initially focus on Japan, with expansion potential into Malaysia and the United States—markets where Hitachi already operates data centre services.

MOL will oversee vessel conversion planning, maritime operations, and financing structures, while Hitachi will handle IT infrastructure, system design, and customer engagement.

The concept also offers cost advantages by reusing existing ship structures, while delivering capacity comparable to large onshore data centres.

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