HAINAN, CHINA: China has made history by launching the world’s first AI-powered data centre beneath the sea off Hainan’s coast. This cutting-edge facility uses seawater for cooling, dramatically cutting energy use while packing the computing power of 30,000 high-performance PCs.

What makes this underwater marvel truly remarkable is its speed. It can handle a year’s worth of computing in just one second. The data centre powers DeepSeek AI’s chatbot, which processes 7,000 queries per second, making it one of the most advanced AI-driven hubs globally.

More than 10 companies have already started using the facility for a range of applications, including AI training, simulations, gaming, and marine research. By placing it underwater, the centre not only reduces operational costs but also minimises its environmental footprint, setting a new benchmark for sustainable computing.

This project signals a major shift in the future of data centres, showing how innovation and eco-friendly solutions can go hand in hand. With AI demand surging, underwater data hubs like this could redefine the industry’s approach to efficiency and sustainability.