#Japan #Tokyo #AI Data Center #Hitachi #J-POWER

Collaborative AI Data Center for Social Infrastructure

In a significant development in the realm of social infrastructure, J-Power (Electric Power Development Co., Ltd.) and Hitachi, Ltd. have signed a Memorandum of Understanding (MOU) to explore the construction of an AI data center (AI-DC). This collaboration aims to leverage advanced technology to address pressing societal issues such as declining birth rates and labor shortages, especially in critical sectors like electricity, gas, and transportation.

With the increasing demand for generative AI as a solution to these social challenges, the need for a reliable, secure AI-Datacenter grows, especially for companies handling vast amounts of sensitive data. J-Power, which is responsible for crucial social infrastructure, is pushing forward with the development and operation of AI-DC, using its portfolio of carbon-neutral power sources, including hydro, wind, geothermal, and solar energy. Partnering with Hitachi brings in their expertise in operational technology (OT) and AI, adding another layer of insight to this initiative.

The MOU outlines future cooperation plans where both companies will define requirements and conduct technical verifications for the AI-DC based on identified use cases for AI in critical infrastructure. This includes optimizing energy use and ensuring sustainability through distributed systems that utilize new energy solutions. Such strategies align with the governmental policy known as “Watt-Bit Convergence,” which aims to integrate power and information infrastructure in a sustainable fashion. This approach facilitates both Green Transformation (GX) and Digital Transformation (DX), contributing to regional coexistence.

Roles and Responsibilities

In this partnership, J-Power will provide land, buildings, and the necessary power supply for the AI-DC. Furthermore, its experience and resources in renewable energy sources ensure that operations can be both eco-friendly and efficient. Meanwhile, Hitachi will supply IT equipment such as servers and storage solutions essential for the AI-DC, leveraging its AI and digital technologies for implementation.

Key Considerations for Future Developments

1. Optimization Through Decentralized AI-DC: The project envisions a decentralized approach to deploying AI-DCs, creating separate environments for training and inference. This structure will maximize the use of renewable energy and transitional thermal power sources, fostering carbon-neutral energy solutions. Additionally, there are plans to utilize advanced data transmission technologies that ensure high-speed, low-latency, and energy-efficient data flow between data centers.

2. Building a Secure and Reliable Environment: A crucial aspect of this initiative involves establishing a highly secure AI-DC environment suited for critical social infrastructure. J-Power intends to implement private cloud solutions that uphold the confidentiality necessary for handling sensitive operational data. By applying generative AI in power generation facilities, stringent access controls will be established to ensure a safe and trustable working environment for multiple stakeholders.

In essence, this collaboration between J-Power and Hitachi sets the stage for pioneering advancements in utilizing AI for enhancing social infrastructure. By combining renewable energy capabilities with powerful digital technologies and expertise, the initiative promises not only to address contemporary societal challenges but also to pave the way for sustainable and smart urban environments in the future.

About J-Power

Founded in 1952, J-Power is dedicated to delivering essential energy resources and contributing to sustainable development both in Japan and globally. Committed to achieving carbon neutrality by 2050, J-Power employs various renewable energy sources, including hydro, thermal, wind, geothermal, and solar power.

About Hitachi

Hitachi is a global leader in social innovation, utilizing IT, operational technology, and product expertise to harmonize environmental sustainability with economic growth. Their diverse framework addresses intricate societal challenges, aiming for the seamless integration of technology to create value from data while enhancing quality of life. Hitachi is strategically positioned to expand such innovative solutions worldwide.