Vertiv implementing efficient power solutions in Data Centers

Data centers can enhance sustainability and reliability through on-site renewable energy solutions, microgrid technologies, and advanced UPS systems. These can significantly reduce energy consumption and operational costs while supporting climate goals. Vikas Srivastava has to share more on the domain.

How can data centers effectively implement on-site renewable energy generation solutions?

As companies begin to prioritise responsible business strategies, data centers should consider more sustainable energy sources as environment-friendly alternatives. This can be done via on-site renewable energy generation options such as solar panels, wind turbines, and using batteries to store surplus energy for later consumption. Furthermore, from a grid management perspective, working with utility providers to optimise power consumption during off-peak hours or using alternative energy sources during peak hours and tapping into the grid only when needed, can help manage needs in regions with strained power grids.

In addition to energy-efficient power management systems, Vertiv provides a variety of thermal management systems for heat removal and cooling for data centers of all sizes and with all types of issues to enhance energy efficiency. We are dedicated to investigating, evaluating, and testing new technologies that display the potential to assist clients in lowering their energy usage and GHG emissions and advancing their climate-related goals.

How do microgrids enhance reliability for data centers using renewable energy sources?

Vertiv has been working with utility and alternative energy providers to develop microgrid solutions to support customer data centers. A microgrid can connect and disconnect from the grid to enable it to operate in grid-connected or island mode using lithium-ion batteries, fuel cells, natural gas generators, and other alternative sources based on preferred options that make sense for the region and climate.

Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) efficiently harness energy from renewable sources, storing it during utility outages, peak demand periods, or microgrid applications. Typically utilising lithium-ion batteries, BESS solutions provide 1-4 hour storage, with emerging technologies for longer-duration needs. Complementing BESS, natural gas generators offer a reliable backup power source, quickly ramping up to meet demand when renewable generation falls short. Together, these systems effectively address the intermittent nature of renewable energy, ensuring data centers can sustain reliable and sustainable operations while enhancing overall energy resilience. This combination plays a critical role in modern energy management strategies.

How do ECO and Dynamic Online modes enhance UPS efficiency for Data Centers?

These modes allow the UPS to operate with reduced energy consumption, optimising power use based on load demand, focus on improving energy efficiency and reducing operational costs.

At Vertiv, some of our recent launches include the Vertiv™ Liebert® APM2, a new online double-conversion UPS. It is designed to enhance power protection for distributed IT networks and edge computing applications. With up to 97.5% peak efficiency in double conversion mode and 99% efficiency in dynamic online mode,  the Liebert® APM2 drives significant energy and cost savings. A few months ago, we also launched Vertiv™ Trinergy™, an uninterruptible 2MW power supply (UPS) engineered to handle the fluctuating load demands of data centers, and Vertiv™ PowerNexus, an integrated solution that provides space-saving close coupling of the UPS and system switchgear.