#Japan #Kurume #JR Kyushu #MICHIBIKI DC #Kurume City

JR Kyushu Electric System's New Data Center Venture

In a bold move to step into the data center business, JR Kyushu Electric System Company has announced plans to construct a modular data center in Kurume City, Fukuoka Prefecture, starting in October 2025. This venture marks a significant addition to the company's portfolio, representing its inaugural foray into the data center industry.

Project Overview

The new data center is expected to be completed by March 2027, following a co-location model that will cater to various customer needs. By utilizing high-speed optical fiber connections linked to the Shinkansen (bullet train), the facility aims to offer top-notch communication services. This project not only supports the escalating demand for cloud and AI solutions but also contributes to the decentralization of data centers in urban areas such as Tokyo and Osaka, thereby enhancing digital infrastructure for local communities.

Objectives of the Business

The primary goal of this endeavor is to meet the rapidly growing demand for cloud computing services and generative AI. The project underscores JR Kyushu Electric System's commitment to delivering high-performance, environmentally-friendly infrastructure.

Facility Features

Total Power Capacity: 1 MW
Area: Approximately 180 square meters
Building Structure: One-story modular design with seismic resistance and a load capacity of 1.5 tons per square meter
Planning / Development: Michibiki Co., Ltd.
Purpose: Infrastructure tailored for generative AI and cloud services

Timeline (Tentative)

Groundbreaking: November 2025
Completion: March 2027
Operational Start: April 2027

Company Overview

JR Kyushu Electric System Company
Representative: President Kazuhiro Oishi
Address: 1-18-17 Takeshita, Hakata Ward, Fukuoka City, 812-0895, Japan
Business Activities: Railway electrical construction, Shinkansen construction, building facilities, Shinkansen optical fiber communication, information and communication services, power generation
Website: JR Kyushu

In addition, the modular data center's development is spearheaded by Michibiki Co., Ltd., a Tokyo University startup poised to implement societal innovations based on research outcomes and technological advancements. The company specializes in the planning and development of the modular data center, branded as “MICHIBIKI DC.”
Representative: President Takahide Nakajima
Address: 8F, Shinbashi Place, 1-12-9 Shinbashi, Minato Ward, Tokyo, 105-0004, Japan
Business Activities: Data center development, internet technology development, consulting services
Website: Michibiki
* Project Page: MICHIBIKI DC

For more information, visit the Tokyo University Green ICT Project.

This venture signifies a crucial infrastructure shift aiming to support the digital transformation of regional societies, enhancing technological accessibility and fostering future innovations.