UK firm aims to build 'data centre' using 50k lampposts in Nigeria (www.bbc.co.uk)

A UK company, Conflow Power Group Limited (CPG), has announced a groundbreaking initiative to deploy 50,000 solar-powered smart lampposts, known as iLamps, in Katsina, Nigeria. These lampposts will serve a dual purpose: illuminating streets and functioning as a distributed AI data centre. Each iLamp is equipped with a low-powered NVIDIA chip that allows for AI processing while remaining sustainable by relying solely on solar energy. The project aims to create a network of connected units that will collectively simulate the processing power of a traditional data centre, which is especially significant in regions with limited infrastructure. The significance of this initiative extends beyond energy efficiency; it proposes a novel approach to data processing in developing regions. While experts caution that the iLamps are not a replacement for powerful, centralized data centres necessary for demanding AI tasks, they could be valuable for smaller applications and real-time surveillance. Equipped with AI cameras, these lampposts will enhance public safety by monitoring traffic violations and potentially assist in locating missing persons through facial recognition. Additionally, CPG plans to generate revenue by renting out the processing capabilities of the iLamps to AI companies while supporting local governance through shared revenues from traffic fines. This project not only enhances urban infrastructure but also aims to foster innovation in Africa, where regulatory environments are often more accommodating.