DeepGreen Proposes $415M Underwater AI Data Center Powered by Tidal Energy Off Maine Coast
Key Takeaways
- ▸DeepGreen proposes combining 51 MW of tidal power generation with underwater AI data center pods in Western Passage off Maine, addressing the massive energy demands of AI computing through renewable sources
- ▸The $415 million project would use proven technologies with modular docking cradles designed to potentially integrate existing turbine systems from competitors like ORPC
- ▸The infrastructure would occupy only 7% of its 400-acre permit area, minimizing environmental footprint while generating electricity for local communities and the Passamaquoddy Tribe
Summary
DeepGreen Western Passage SPV LLC has submitted a preliminary permit application to the Federal Energy Regulatory Commission (FERC) for a novel 51-megawatt tidal energy project combined with subsea AI data center infrastructure off the coast of Eastport, Maine. The $415 million project would feature 170 tidal turbines mounted in universal docking cradles and 34 high-density AI-computer server pods spanning 400 acres (with only 7% actively occupied), designed to power both local communities and advanced computing operations. The company plans to finance the project through private equity and institutional green-AI investors, with potential support from federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act.
The proposal represents an innovative approach to powering energy-intensive AI infrastructure using renewable tidal energy, addressing both the computational and environmental demands of modern data centers. DeepGreen's CEO Louis Wolfson emphasizes the use of proven technologies and is in discussions with Ocean Renewable Power Company (ORPC), which has been developing tidal projects in the region for years. ORPC's CEO Stuart Davis responded positively to the proposal, suggesting potential collaboration opportunities. The project remains in its preliminary development stage, with DeepGreen seeking a 48-month permit to conduct environmental baseline studies and engineering work.
- Project financing combines company cash reserves, private equity, and green-AI institutional investors, with planned use of federal tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act
Editorial Opinion
This proposal exemplifies an emerging trend of pairing AI infrastructure with renewable energy generation to address the industry's escalating power consumption challenges. While the concept is innovative and environmentally motivated, the project's success hinges on DeepGreen demonstrating genuine technical capability and financial backing—areas where the developer currently lacks a proven track record. If realized, the initiative could serve as a model for sustainable AI data center deployment in other coastal regions with strong tidal resources.
