Editorial | Supercomputer hub brings Hong Kong and Shenzhen closer together
A planned supercomputing facility in the Northern Metropolis will help blend the strengths of Hong Kong and Shenzhen
Range Intelligent Computing Technology won the tender to build the supercomputing centre by investing HK$23.8 billion (US$3 billion) over three years. When fully operational, the centre is projected to boost Hong Kong’s computing power 36-fold.
The firm’s parent, Shenzhen-listed Runze Intelligent Computing Technology Group, specialises in developing and operating high-end data centres – the kind of facility needed to power advanced artificial intelligence and supercomputing. It has built about 20 data facilities across the country.
Hong Kong is positioning itself at the forefront of the nation’s quest for computing supremacy. The new facility will occupy 11 hectares (27 acres) of land in the northern New Territories, right across from Shenzhen. The high engineering complexity in the project’s construction will boost the professional training of a new generation of local engineers and technicians.
Such facilities are notorious for consuming power, but CLP Power, which serves the New Territories with its power grids, is working closely with the project. This is a good example of public-private cooperation to enhance hi-tech innovation. Since Hong Kong has an official cap on electricity charges, any extra power demand will not affect the utility bills of nearby households.
The company is well qualified for the task, but as this megaproject concerns the city’s tech future, the government has a duty to closely monitor each stage of development to ensure steady progress.