Who needs data centers in space when they can float offshore?

The demand for AI data centers has surged, prompting discussions about innovative solutions, including placing servers in space to harness constant solar energy. However, one startup, Aikido, is proposing an alternative by submerging a data center off the coast of Norway. This 100-kilowatt demonstration project aims to utilize the power generated by a floating offshore wind turbine. Scheduled for deployment this year, the small data center will be housed in submerged pods attached to the turbine. If successful, Aikido plans to expand its operations with a larger facility off the UK coast by 2028, featuring a turbine capacity of 15 to 18 megawatts, which will support a data center with a power requirement of 10 to 12 megawatts. The offshore location presents several advantages, including direct access to a consistent power source from the wind turbine above. This setup could mitigate issues related to energy availability, as offshore wind patterns tend to be more stable than those on land. Additionally, using a modest battery system could help manage any short-term power fluctuations. Submerging data centers also addresses concerns from local communities who might oppose traditional data center construction due to noise and environmental pollution. By positioning the centers underwater, Aikido aims to alleviate these 'not in my backyard' sentiments. Furthermore, the cool seawater environment could simplify server cooling, a significant challenge for data centers, especially those in space. However, transitioning to an underwater model is not without its challenges. The ocean's harsh conditions mean that while submerged servers are protected from surface waves, they must be securely anchored to withstand movement. Additionally, the corrosive nature of seawater necessitates robust protective measures for all equipment, including the containers and electrical connections. Aikido is not alone in exploring submerged data centers; Microsoft previously tested this concept over a decade ago. Their 2018 experiment off the coast of Scotland demonstrated some success, with only six servers malfunctioning out of over 850 during a 25-month test period. The data hall's inert nitrogen gas environment likely contributed to the low failure rate. Although Microsoft accumulated multiple patents related to this technology and open-sourced them in 2021, the company ultimately discontinued the project by 2024.