Next-Gen Green Data Center: Powered by Water?

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One day, if Google has its way, the green data center of the future may be powered by water. Data Center Knowledge reports that Google has filed a patent for a "water-based data center" which would use the ocean for both power and cooling.

The patent, according to the application, would float in 50 to 70 meters of water some three to 7 miles offshore.

Electricity would be generated from the tides, using Pelamis Wave Energy Converter units, which use wave motion to create power. Data Center Knowledge notes that the biggest existing project with Pelamis Wave Energy Converter units generate approximately five megawatts of power. Google's patents calls for at least 40 Pelamis Wave Energy Converter units to be combined to generate 40 megawatts.

Seawater would cool the data center, using pumps powered by the ocean, and seawater-to-freshwater heat exchangers.

Don't expect this to happen any time soon, of course. Still, it's hard to imagine a greener data center.