6 Jun 2025
To meet the rising energy demands of AI and cloud computing data centers, a new study by ABS and Herbert Engineering explores the concept of floating nuclear-powered data centers. These would be stationed in coastal waters or river estuaries, using the surrounding water as a heat sink for both servers and small modular reactors (SMRs)Â housed on specially designed barges.
The report, Pathways to a Low Carbon Future Floating Nuclear Power Data Center, outlines key design considerations such as heat and energy management, structural integrity, and weight distribution. This concept could reduce pressure on local power grids and enhance sustainability.
The study builds on previous ABS research into offshore nuclear applications and supports the development of future regulatory frameworks. ABS also released the first comprehensive rules for floating nuclear power plants in 2024.
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Download the report below: