Story perspectives

Australian Startup Powers Data Centers with Human Neurons

3/12/2026

Summary

Story summary

Cortical Labs, an Australian startup, is building two data centers in Melbourne and Singapore using CL1 units powered by human neurons to reduce energy use.
The CL1 units reportedly consume about 30 watts per unit, far less than traditional AI chips.
The Melbourne facility will house 120 units and the Singapore site will scale up to 1,000 units.
Experts caution the technology remains early, with memory storage and adaptability challenges.

History

Historical Context

The 1980s marked a resurgence in artificial intelligence, particularly with the rediscovery of the backpropagation algorithm, which revitalized neural network research. Pioneers like Geoffrey Hinton advanced machine learning techniques, leading to significant innovations. By 1986, these developments laid the groundwork for modern AI, influencing energy-efficient technologies like Cortical Labs' neuron-powered data centers in Melbourne and Singapore.

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Story summary

Cortical Labs, an Australian startup, is building two data centers in Melbourne and Singapore using CL1 units powered by human neurons to reduce energy use.
The CL1 units reportedly consume about 30 watts per unit, far less than traditional AI chips.
The Melbourne facility will house 120 units and the Singapore site will scale up to 1,000 units.
Experts caution the technology remains early, with memory storage and adaptability challenges.

1 / 2