Revolutionizing Data Centers: Yokohama’s Offshore Green Data Center Project
NYK Line, NTT FACIITIES, Eurus Energy Holdings Corporation, MUFG Bank, and the city of Yokohama have joined forces in a groundbreaking initiative – the demonstration project of an offshore green data center. This innovative project aims to utilize a mini-float as a disaster countermeasure while operating entirely on renewable energy.
Testing Renewable Energy Solutions
The partners will test an offshore floating data center powered by solar power and battery energy storage systems. The mini-float, located off Osanbashi Pier in Yokohama City, spans 25 meters in length and 80 meters in width. The project will assess the equipment’s salt damage resistance and operational stability in an offshore environment, with the goal of starting the demonstration in autumn 2025.
Future Developments in Yokohama Port
Based on the results of the project, the partners plan to explore further developments in the waterfront and sea areas of Yokohama port. The ultimate vision is to establish offshore floating green data centers as a new standard for future data centers, contributing significantly to the realization of a carbon-neutral society.
Efficient Utilization of Renewable Energy
Offshore floating green data centers offer efficient utilization of offshore wind power, a promising renewable energy source. By situating these data centers near offshore wind farms, the project aims to maximize the use of generated electricity without relying on onshore power grids.
Addressing Construction Challenges
Offshore data centers also present solutions to challenges associated with onshore construction, such as land availability, construction contractor shortages, and extended lead times. By leveraging Japan’s maritime domain and enhancing port functions, the project aims to contribute to environmental preservation and digital infrastructure growth.
The partners are committed to addressing various challenges and working towards the vision of operating data centers entirely on renewable energy. The offshore green data center project in Yokohama represents a significant step towards a sustainable and carbon-neutral future.