Overcoming Space Constraints for Solar Panels: Innovative Solutions for Small Data Centres
As the demand for digital services skyrockets, data centres have become the backbone of the connected world. Since 2010, the number of internet users has more than doubled, and global internet traffic has expanded 20-fold. However, this surge in data consumption comes with a heavy price: As of 2024, data centres consume roughly 1% of the global electricity consumption. This has led to a higher demand for alternative sources of energy. The global on-site photovoltaic solar power market for data centres is expected to grow from USD 26.01 billion in 2025 to USD 49.22 billion by 2030, reflecting a CAGR of 13.6%.?While the energy efficiency of data centres has improved significantly, their growing energy demand still poses a challenge. ?
Global decarbonization efforts mandate a 45% reduction in emissions by 2030, aiming for net zero by 2050.?Many operators are turning to renewable energy solutions, particularly solar power. Yet, for smaller data centres, one significant hurdle remains: limited space for installing solar systems.?
?The Challenges of Implementing Solar Power in Small Data Centres?
Smaller data centres often operate in urban environments, where space is limited and the demand for energy is high. In these settings, rooftop space is typically the primary location for solar panel installation. However, several challenges make this a less-than-ideal solution.?
2. Structural Limitations:? Older buildings or those not specifically designed for data centre use may not have the structural integrity to support the weight of solar panels and mounting systems. Retrofitting buildings to accommodate solar panels can incur significant upfront costs. This can deter smaller data centre operators from adopting solar energy solutions.?
3. Regulatory and Aesthetic Constraints:? In many regions, local regulations or aesthetic concerns may restrict the installation of solar panels. For example, in urban or historical districts, building appearance regulations may prevent the installation of visible solar arrays, further complicating the issue for smaller data centres.?
Innovative Solutions for Solar Power Installation in Small Data Centres?
Despite these challenges, innovative technologies and strategies are enabling smaller data centres to harness the power of solar energy. By thinking outside the box and using creative solutions, these facilities are finding ways to generate clean energy without requiring extensive rooftop space or major structural modifications.??
1. Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) Technology?
Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) systems integrate solar panels into a building’s structure—such as windows, walls, or facades—making them an ideal solution for small data centres with limited roof space. A National Renewable Energy Laboratory?(NREL) study showed that BIPV systems can generate up to 50% more energy than traditional rooftop solar, particularly in urban areas with limited space. Additionally, BIPV enhances a building's aesthetic, making it suitable for high-visibility or historical locations.?
BIPV solutions are flexible, applicable to both new builds and retrofits, allowing small data centres to adopt solar power without large rooftops. For instance, Apple’s data centre in Reno, Nevada, uses a 17-megawatt solar installation integrated into the building, cutting energy costs and reducing its carbon footprint.?
2. Solar Canopies and Carports?
For data centres that have limited or no available rooftop space, installing solar canopies or carports is an innovative way to harness solar energy. Solar canopies are structures that cover parking lots or outdoor areas, supporting solar panels that generate clean electricity while also providing shade for vehicles or creating additional functional space.?
Solar carports can generate up to 30% more energy per square foot than traditional rooftop installations because they can be placed in areas with more sunlight exposure. This makes them an excellent option for small data centres that are located in urban areas with limited rooftop space.?
For example, DataBank, a data centre operator in the U.S., installed a solar canopy over its parking lot, generating enough energy to offset a significant portion of its energy needs. The solar canopies not only reduce the facility's dependence on grid electricity but also provide shelter for vehicles, making the installation a dual-purpose solution.?
3. Energy Storage Systems?
Integrating solar power with energy storage systems is a game-changer for small data centres. Energy storage technologies, such as lithium-ion batteries, allow data centres to store excess solar power generated during the day for use during peak demand times or when sunlight is unavailable.
Despite the rapid surge in demand driven by the adoption of artificial intelligence (AI), data centres can meet ?their power needs through a combination of renewable energy and battery storage. A combination of using solar with energy storage could reduce energy costs for data centres by up to 80%. By storing solar power in batteries, data centres can avoid purchasing expensive peak-hour electricity from the grid and ensure a reliable power supply during low-sunlight periods.
For smaller data centres, energy storage systems are particularly beneficial because they allow for more consistent and predictable energy output. Google's data centre in Belgium uses an integrated solar and storage system to generate renewable energy and store it for use during cloudy periods, enhancing both energy efficiency and operational resilience.?
Empowering Small Data Centres Through Solar Power?
Smaller data centres face significant challenges when it comes to implementing on-site solar power due to space constraints, but innovative solutions like Building-Integrated Photovoltaic (BIPV) technology, solar canopies, and energy storage systems are helping them overcome these obstacles. By adopting these technologies, smaller data centres can not only reduce their energy consumption and carbon footprint but also improve energy efficiency and lower operational costs.
As the demand for data processing and storage continues to rise, it is crucial for data centre operators to prioritize renewable energy sources like solar power. Not only does solar energy help meet sustainability goals, but it also ensures a more resilient, cost-effective energy future. By embracing innovative solar solutions, even small data centres can contribute to the global push for cleaner, more sustainable energy use.?
With the right technologies and strategies in place, small data centres can lead the way toward a more sustainable and energy-efficient future. ?
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