Is Distributed Energy the smart solution for datacentres?

As our reliance on digital technologies and online services continues to grow, so too does the demand for data centres. These facilities, which house the servers and networking equipment that power the internet, consume vast amounts of energy, and their energy needs are only going to increase in the coming years. One solution to this problem is to adopt distributed energy systems, which can provide a range of benefits to data centres.

Distributed energy systems are those that generate and store power locally, typically using renewable sources like solar, wind, or hydro. These systems can be located on-site at a data centre campus or in close proximity, and can be used to supplement or replace the energy obtained from the grid. Here are some of the ways in which data centres can benefit from distributed energy:

View our Data Centres Brochure here:

Reduced energy costs

One of the most significant benefits of distributed energy for data centres is cost savings. By generating alternate power, data centres can reduce their reliance on the grid, which can be expensive, particularly during periods of high demand. Additionally, many distributed energy systems, such as solar panels, have no fuel costs, which means they can provide power at a much lower cost than traditional energy sources.

Increased reliability

Data centres are critically important facilities that need to be up and running 24/7. Any downtime can have serious consequences, both in terms of lost revenue and damage to a company's reputation. By using distributed energy, data centres can improve their reliability, as they are less reliant on the grid and therefore less vulnerable to power outages or blackouts. Additionally, many distributed energy systems can be designed to include battery storage, which can provide backup power in the event of an outage.

Environmental benefits

The use of renewable energy sources like solar and wind can significantly reduce a data centre's carbon footprint. By generating their own power using clean energy, data centres can help to mitigate the environmental impact of their operations. Additionally, many distributed energy systems can be designed to include energy management systems, which can help to reduce overall energy consumption and further reduce the facility's carbon footprint.

Improved energy efficiency

In addition to reducing energy costs and environmental impact, distributed energy systems can also help to improve the overall energy efficiency of a data centre. By generating power on-site, data centres can avoid the losses that occur during transmission and distribution over long distances. Additionally, many distributed energy systems can be designed to include smart energy management systems, which can help to optimize energy use and reduce waste.

Increased energy independence

By generating alternate power, data centres can achieve a greater degree of energy independence. This can be particularly important in areas where the grid is unreliable or prone to outages. By using distributed energy, data centres can ensure that they have a reliable source of power, even during times of high demand on the grid.

In conclusion, distributed energy systems can provide a range of benefits to data centres, including reduced energy costs, increased reliability, environmental benefits, improved energy efficiency, and increased energy independence. As the demand for data centres continues to grow, adopting distributed energy solutions will become increasingly important in ensuring that these facilities can operate efficiently and sustainably.

What is Distributed Energy?

Distributed energy refers to the generation of electricity from small-scale, decentralised sources such as solar panels and wind turbines. These sources of energy are located close to the point of consumption, rather than being generated at a central power plant and then distributed over long distances to consumers.

It can help to improve the reliability and resilience of the electric grid, reduce the need for expensive transmission and distribution infrastructure, reduce greenhouse gas emissions and a variety of different technologies and strategies can be used to support distributed energy.

Why SSE Energy Solutions ?

We have a rich heritage of delivering local solutions to global challenges.

Large scale infrastructure: SSE has owned and operated infrastructure servicing Slough Trading Estate since 2008. This is the largest privately owned industrial estate in Europe, housing over 600 businesses across 2km2 of commercial property, and with a working population of 20,000, the Slough Estate is Europe’s largest data centre conurbation.

Energy Network: We operate and maintain the private electricity network serving businesses within the Trading Estate and will provide additional connections to serve future growth of the estate. We operate and maintain a private water network, supplying steam and hot water to Estate businesses.

We have also recently been announced as an energy partner on the prestigious Imperial Park in Newport, home to Vantage Data Centers .

Click the link below to find out how we can support your organisation in achieving net zero: