UK company leads innovation by using lampposts for data centres
UK company leads: A UK company is leading a new approach to data centres by using solar-powered lampposts equipped with AI processing capabilities. Warwickshire-based Conflow Power Group Limited (CPG) has developed the iLamp, a smart streetlight that integrates a low-powered Nvidia chip designed for artificial intelligence tasks. This innovation aims to create a distributed AI data centre network by connecting thousands of these lampposts.
How the iLamps work
Each iLamp is powered by a cylindrical solar panel that charges internal batteries, providing energy to run a small AI-capable computer chip. The Nvidia chip inside the lamppost consumes only 15 watts of power, making it suitable for solar energy use. CPG chairman Edward Fitzpatrick explained that when networked together, thousands of these iLamps could collectively deliver the processing power of a traditional data centre without drawing energy from the electrical grid.
Besides computing, the iLamps can function as AI-powered surveillance cameras. In Nigeria, where CPG has signed an agreement to deploy 50,000 units, each lamppost will be equipped with AI cameras capable of detecting parking violations, speeding, and seatbelt compliance. Similar iLamps are already in use at Warwick Hospital, providing CCTV monitoring and number plate recognition.
Security and scalability considerations
Experts have raised concerns about the security and scalability of using lampposts as data centres. Prof Ian Bitterlin, a data centre industry veteran, highlighted the physical security risks, noting that streetlights could be vulnerable to theft. Fitzpatrick acknowledged this risk but stated that the chips are designed to be disabled if removed, preventing theft of valuable components.
Regarding scalability, some experts doubt that iLamps can replace large, powerful data centres needed for demanding AI tasks such as training large language models. The distributed nature of the lampposts and the communication speed between them may limit their ability to handle the most intensive AI workloads. However, they could be valuable for smaller AI applications and as access points that connect users to larger data centres.
Deployment and future plans
CPG’s agreement with Katsina State in Nigeria involves deploying 50,000 iLamps, with plans to build an assembly factory locally. The state will generate revenue by leasing the processing power of the iLamps to AI companies, with CPG taking a 20% cut after three years. Dr Hafiz Ibrahim Ahmad, Special Adviser on Power and Energy for Katsina State, described the project as the only distributed AI data centre of its kind in Africa, highlighting potential benefits such as safer streets, real-time crime prevention, free public internet, and a new revenue stream for the state.
Fitzpatrick emphasized Africa as a prime target for the technology due to abundant sunshine, favorable regulations, and demand for street lighting infrastructure. The iLamps will be manufactured in Morocco, Taiwan, and Latvia, with local assembly in Katsina.
Privacy and ethical considerations
The AI cameras on the iLamps have capabilities such as facial recognition, which raises concerns about privacy, bias, and potential misuse. Fitzpatrick stated that CPG will only deploy facial recognition technology in partnership with relevant authorities and in compliance with laws and regulations. The company also envisions interactive features, such as allowing people to vote or participate in polls by making gestures near the lampposts.
Environmental impact
The energy consumption of AI systems is a growing concern globally. By using solar power, the iLamps aim to reduce reliance on grid electricity and lower the environmental footprint of AI processing. While they are not expected to replace large data centres entirely, experts see them as a complementary solution for smaller AI tasks and edge computing closer to users.