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What are underwater data centres?
Underwater data centres are data storage facilities built beneath the ocean or sea. They use the natural cooling properties of water to keep servers at optimal temperatures, reducing energy costs. These centres are designed to be environmentally friendly and can be deployed closer to coastal populations for faster data access.
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Why is China investing in underwater data centres?
China sees underwater data centres as a way to develop its digital infrastructure, attract foreign investment, and showcase technological innovation. They also aim to use green energy sources and reduce the environmental footprint of data storage, aligning with China's broader goals of sustainable development and global tech leadership.
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How do underwater data centres compare to traditional data centres?
Compared to traditional land-based data centres, underwater centres benefit from natural cooling, which lowers energy consumption and costs. They can also be built faster and closer to major cities, reducing latency. However, they face unique challenges like marine environment risks and maintenance difficulties.
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What are the environmental concerns with underwater data centres?
Environmental concerns include potential chemical pollution from materials used in the centres, impacts on marine ecosystems, and the risks associated with chemicals like PFAS. Critics worry that these factors could harm ocean life and offset the environmental benefits of using green energy.
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How does China's push into underwater data centres affect global AI leadership?
China's focus on underwater data centres is part of its strategy to strengthen digital infrastructure, which is crucial for AI development. By expanding its data capacity and improving connectivity, China aims to compete with the US and Gulf nations, potentially shaping the future landscape of AI innovation and global tech dominance.
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What are the challenges of deploying underwater data centres?
Deploying underwater data centres involves technical challenges like ensuring durability in harsh marine environments, preventing corrosion, and maintaining the facilities. Additionally, regulatory hurdles and environmental concerns can slow down deployment and increase costs.