'Data centers can be located in exhausted open pits': Russia eyes 300-meter-deep coal mines to shield server infrastructure from Ukrainian drones

Russia is contemplating utilizing abandoned coal mines as potential sites for future data centers, with some open pits reaching depths of around 300 meters. The proposal, put forth by Kemerovo region governor Ilya Seredyuk, aims to capitalize on the vertical space and potential cooling benefits from accumulated mine water. Seredyuk suggested constructing underground facilities instead of spending resources on conventional surface construction, adding that landscaping above these underground installations could create public parks while concealing server buildings.

However, the technical aspects of such a project remain uncertain, with engineering assessments required for structural stability, water management, electricity supply, ventilation, and emergency access. The idea comes amid rising concerns about attacks on Russia's digital infrastructure, including incidents involving Yandex data centers.

While the prospect of utilizing deep open pits for data centers presents opportunities for cost savings and enhanced physical protection, significant challenges must be addressed before Russia can determine the viability of this approach.