A UK firm, Conflow Power Group Limited (CPG), has launched an innovative project involving smart lampposts as distributed data centres. Each iLamp unit, powered by solar energy, houses a low-powered computer capable of performing AI tasks.

With an agreement in place with the Nigerian state of Katsina to deploy 50,000 units, CPG predicts that this network will deliver significant environmental benefits while generating revenue through renting out processing power. However, some experts question whether these lampposts can replace traditional data centres necessary for running complex AI tasks.

Each iLamp also functions as an AI-powered surveillance camera, capable of monitoring traffic violations and potential crimes in real-time. This technology could bring safer streets but may raise concerns about privacy and the potential misuse of facial recognition capabilities.

The venture is seen by CPG as a solution for areas with limited access to traditional data centres, particularly in Africa, where the firm plans to demonstrate its technology's viability. The company sees this project as a green initiative that could provide free public internet and generate revenue through fines collected by the state.