In a bold move showcasing its expanding technological capabilities, China has deployed an advanced underwater data center near the coast of Hainan province. This pioneering facility not only redefines data infrastructure with its cutting-edge AI processing capabilities but also sets a benchmark in environmental sustainability and energy efficiency. At the core of this initiative is DeepSeek technology, China’s powerful AI assistant platform that recently drew global attention for its ability to handle competitive conversational tasks. The data center’s integration with DeepSeek makes it capable of managing up to 7,000 AI-driven conversations per second. The entire system boasts a computational capacity equivalent to that of nearly 30,000 high-performance PCs—an achievement that could dramatically accelerate AI innovation and data-intensive industries.
 

According to reports from China’s CGTN and ChinaDaily, the facility’s most recent upgrade includes the deployment of a submerged module—an 18-meter-long high-pressure vessel housing more than 400 high-end servers. This underwater unit is part of a modular system that can be expanded, scaled, and operationalized within just 90 days. The servers connect with land-based terminals to ensure real-time responsiveness and seamless integration across a range of commercial applications.
 

Revolutionizing Data Infrastructure with Eco-Friendly Innovation

What distinguishes this underwater data center from traditional facilities is its unique eco-conscious design. The ocean itself becomes a natural cooling agent, eliminating the need for energy-intensive air conditioning systems. Seawater circulates through the submerged modules, maintaining optimal temperatures while dramatically reducing energy usage. This approach results in a power usage effectiveness (PUE) rating of just 1.1—well below the industry standard of 1.4 or higher. In line with China's broader commitment to achieving carbon neutrality, the data center is powered in part by offshore wind energy and connected to a custom power grid provided by Hainan Power Grid Co. The total installed electricity capacity spans 24,000 kilovolt-amperes across the three phases of the project, ensuring uninterrupted high-performance operations.
 

The center’s design also minimizes land usage—an increasingly important factor as urbanization and data demands grow in tandem. By relocating large-scale computing facilities to the seabed, developers can free up valuable onshore real estate while enhancing data infrastructure resiliency in coastal economic zones. Industries across multiple domains have already shown interest in leveraging the data center’s capabilities. Sectors including AI model training, industrial simulation, game development, and marine research are among the early adopters. At present, ten companies have signed contracts to utilize the platform, which has been running efficiently since its launch.
 

Unprecedented Processing Speeds and Industry Impact

The underwater data center is capable of processing more than 4 million high-definition images in just 30 seconds, equating to the workload of approximately 60,000 standard computing systems. These blistering speeds could revolutionize fields reliant on massive datasets, such as genomic research, autonomous vehicle simulations, climate modeling, and digital twin technology. The modular nature of the infrastructure enables scalability without the typical constraints faced by terrestrial data centers. Units can be installed, tested, and brought online rapidly—adding flexibility for future growth. Moreover, the proximity to coastal hubs provides logistical and performance benefits for maritime industries, port authorities, and companies engaged in oceanographic studies.
 

By placing AI at the helm of an eco-efficient underwater data center, China is demonstrating a forward-looking approach that blends environmental responsibility with high-performance innovation. The initiative also represents a strategic advancement in digital infrastructure deployment, showcasing how nations can tackle global tech challenges through bold, sustainable engineering. The DeepSeek-powered underwater data cluster not only enhances China’s standing in AI and green technology but also opens new possibilities for reimagining how and where data centers can operate in the future. As global demand for computing power continues to surge, this initiative could well inspire a new generation of submerged, modular, and eco-friendly data solutions across the world.