Onsite energy is an important part of infrastructure planning for data centers – whether it’s backup power, or to replace grid reliance entirely. As we discussed in last month’s blog post, Bloom Energy’s Data Center Power Report claims that over a third of all data centers expect to use only onsite power by 2030.

So, what are the options? How do they compare? And where do we expect this to go in the future? Let’s take a look at some of the current trends and what we see coming down the pipeline.

Diesel Generators

Diesel engine generator systems are the most important onsite power option for data centers today. For Uptime Institute Tier III+ certified facilities, diesel generators are standard because they are a proven solution that can support a data center’s critical load for an extended period of time. Their biggest advantage is reliability; they are a mature technology with well-understood maintenance, controls, fuel handling, and redundancy strategies. The main drawbacks to using diesel generators are sustainability and fuel logistics. However, with the right fuel systems, controls, and proper monitoring for maintenance, these issues can be mitigated.

Natural Gas Generators

Natural gas generators are sometimes used as an alternative to diesel systems. They can provide lower emissions than diesel and a continuous fuel supply through pipeline infrastructure. However, they are used less in Tier III applications because of pipeline availability and fuel pressure. Natural gas can be a strong option in certain locations but may not be a possibility for others.

Fuel Cells

Fuel cells generate electricity through an electrochemical process rather than combustion. They can provide cleaner onsite power and may be used for continuous operation or backup applications. Hydrogen fuel cells are attractive for low-emission backup power. The challenges are cost, fuel availability, slow startup times, and a limited large-scale operating history compared with generators. Because of these limitations, these systems cannot yet be used on their own to qualify as a Tier III facility.

Advanced Geothermal Energy

Advanced geothermal uses modern drilling and engineering to access heat deep below the earth’s surface to generate steady, renewable power. It offers clean energy potential, but there are real limitations on site suitability and risk, as well as high drilling costs to consider. These systems also take a long time to develop compared to the fast pace of current data center growth.

Hybrid Systems and Microgrids

Hybrid microgrids combine multiple resources, such as generators, batteries, fuel cells, solar, and utility power, under coordinated controls. They offer flexibility, resilience, and emissions reduction. Their biggest challenge is system complexity.

Nuclear and Small Modular Reactors

Small modular reactors, or SMRs, are currently being explored as a source of reliable, carbon-free power for large data center campuses. The first application of its kind is currently being built in Canada. This is an appealing, sustainable solution for a consistent baseload and may prove viable for data centers in rural areas. The downside is that nuclear power still fights an uphill battle with regulations, public acceptance, and a longer timeline to production.

The world is watching

With continued concerns about the sustainability of data centers and the “not-in-my-backyard” concerns in areas across the world, everyone is wondering how we will solve the data center power problem. The answer is unlikely to be any one solution – but a combination that will bring us the most consistent, reliable, and sustainable power source.

Preferred Utilities, and its subsidiary, Preferred Engineering, offer power solutions that span generator fuel systems and nuclear power. Reach out to learn more about what we can do for your data center power needs.