Searching for carbon free alternatives for back-up power
Dear?Subscriber,?
The vast majority of backup generators use diesel as a fuel source, leading many operators to consider alternatives in order to decrease the carbon footprint of their facility. Many of the sustainability initiatives within the sector are driven by the hyperscalers, and they are now committing to becoming diesel-free by 2030. This commitment gets pushed down onto the value chain, as part of the hyperscalers scope 3 initiatives and this means the colocation folks must follow suit.
While the backup generators are not often called into action, they are vital to reliable performance in the event of a power blackout. When the backup generators do run, they typically burn fossil fuel. Microsoft is one hyperscaler that is pioneering alternative fuel options. The company launched its sustainable data centre region in Sweden that uses Swedish fuel provider Preem’s Evolution Diesel Plus for generator fuel. This diesel contains at least 50% renewable raw material and nearly an equivalent reduction in net carbon dioxide emissions compared with standard fossil diesel blends.
Long term Microsoft is looking to proton exchange membrane, or PEM, fuel cell technology as a viable solution for no carbon emissions. PEM fuel cells combine hydrogen and oxygen in a chemical reaction that generates electricity, heat and water – no combustion, no particulate matter and no carbon emissions.
Enjoy our series of articles on back-up power and alternatives to diesel.
Do you have any ideas and insights into how we can work towards a more sustainable digital future? Join the conversations on?LinkedIn?or send us an email to:?[email protected]
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Best regards,?
Mark Venables | Editor | Digital Infra Network?
Data Centres look for alternatives to diesel powered back-up power?
Emergency back-up facilities to cope with an unforeseen loss of mains electricity supply are a standard attribute of data centres. Until recently this option has almost invariably comprised a bank of usually lithium-ion batteries that can kick in immediately to allow operations to continue in the short term supported by an on-site generation capability that can maintain operations for an extended period.
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