The main challenge for the evolution of technology-based intelligence is obtaining sufficient energy. On land, most of the available energy is solar, which is limited by the surface area available to a creature. In water, however, there is much more energy available in the form of chemical reactions, such as those that occur between oxygen and hydrogen in seawater. This energy can be harnessed by creatures that have evolved to do so, giving them a significant advantage over terrestrial creatures in terms of the amount of energy available for powering technology-based intelligence.

In addition, water provides a more stable and predictable environment than land, making it easier for creatures to develop and maintain complex technologies. The temperature and pressure of water are relatively constant, and there are few natural disasters such as earthquakes or storms. This allows for the gradual evolution of technology over long periods of time.

Finally, water is a medium that is well-suited to the transmission of information. Sound waves travel faster and farther in water than they do in air, and this can facilitate communication and cooperation between individuals. This makes it more likely that intelligent creatures living in water will evolve social and technological systems that can help them to survive and thrive.