The American Bureau of Shipping (ABS) and Herbert Engineering have released a report outlining a visionary concept: floating data centers powered by small modular nuclear reactors (SMRs). This forward-looking solution aims to meet the exploding energy demands of artificial intelligence (AI), cloud services, and high-performance computing, while reducing pressure on existing electrical grids.
The concept involves purpose-built barges housing data centers and SMRs, moored in coastal waters or estuaries. These floating facilities would utilize the surrounding water as a natural heat sink — cooling both server equipment and the nuclear systems — offering efficient, scalable, and eco-friendly operations.
“The convergence of advanced nuclear technology and AI capacity expansion presents a generational opportunity to secure the future,”
said Christopher J. Wiernicki, Chairman and CEO of ABS.
“Deploying offshore data centers powered by onboard nuclear energy can mitigate certain risks and ease local grid stress.”
Context and Motivation:
AI, cloud infrastructure, and crypto mining are driving unprecedented energy demand. Modern processors require enormous power and produce massive heat, while utilities shift toward renewable energy sources and retire fossil-fuel-based plants. This dual pressure poses a challenge for the development of new data centers.
Key Features of the Concept:
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Integration of ABS’s Nautilus EcoCore cooling system, already tested at a floating data facility in the Port of Stockton;
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High-speed data connectivity and backup power access via shore-based infrastructure;
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Easy crew access for operations and maintenance;
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Modular design, allowing seamless integration between nuclear systems and data center platforms.
This concept builds on ABS’s 2024 release of the industry’s first comprehensive rules for floating nuclear power plants. While the potential is significant, the report notes that many advanced nuclear technologies are still at low maturity levels, with current designs based on theoretical engineering principles.
Despite this, the initiative points to a next-generation, carbon-free energy model for data infrastructure — combining high-density server capacity, efficient thermal management, and grid independence.
