Fluence’s Post

A microgrid could turn you into a power company ... and it might just help build good relationships with your neighbors Summary: Microgrids represent a shift towards data centers becoming self-sufficient power utilities. Traditionally, data centers have relied on local power grids for energy, supplemented by backup power sources like diesel generators. However, with the increasing adoption of renewable energy sources like wind turbines and solar panels, data centers are transitioning towards microgrids, which can operate autonomously and even independently from the local grid. This transition is driven by concerns over the reliability, greenness, and timeliness of traditional utility grids, especially in regions with high demand like Northern Virginia, Dublin, Singapore, and London. Adopting a microgrid means not only generating power but also becoming an electricity provider, which entails regulatory and planning complexities. While this represents a departure from the core business of data centers, it offers potential financial benefits and the opportunity for greater energy independence. Furthermore, establishing a microgrid can foster positive community relations, as it can alleviate local grid demands and prevent the need for additional power infrastructure. Judge suggests that data centers, by becoming responsive power sources, could generate goodwill in their local communities, which is essential for their continued growth. #Microgrids #DataCenterEnergy #RenewableEnergyTransition #PowerAutonomy #GreenDataCenters #UtilityGridChallenges #EnergyIndependence #CommunityRelationsInTech

I often focus on how exciting the motive power business is right now, with the ongoing innovation in our space. At EnerSys we also have our Energy Systems business that focuses on energy storage which is in an equally exciting time. EnerSys is focused on creating innovative products that can help with the US goal to convert to renewable energy. Here is an interesting article explaining how the U.S. electrical grid could be overwhelmed by increasing demands and extreme weather events. The transition to renewable energy, while essential, adds complexity that our current infrastructure may struggle to support without significant upgrades. Key points to consider: Rising Energy Demand: With more electric vehicles and smart devices, the load on our grid is escalating. Extreme Weather: Severe storms, heatwaves, and other climate impacts can disrupt power supply and cause blackouts. Aging Infrastructure: Much of our grid was built decades ago and isn't equipped to handle modern challenges. https://lnkd.in/eWWZXNvz

Data center leaders have been talking about clean energy procurement for a while -- but actually buying clean power can be difficult. If you're unsure where to start, check out our article, "The Essentials Of Clean Power Procurement For Data Centers." It explains some of the benefits of clean power (hedge against energy price volatility, get ahead of regulations, and meet customer preferences), and the most common clean power procurement philosophies. #datacenter #sustainability #renewables https://lnkd.in/dWdpxtEt

There is surging global investment in data centers for AI and other digital processes, not least facilitated by HUGE returns over decades. These data centers will require huge amounts of energy, on top of the growing demand from developing nations. This is another example of a need for more secure, reliable, and affordable energy resources. At the current rate of renewable energy build out, this demand will push energy costs higher, unless we take a pragmatic AND not OR approach. #energyneeds #energyinfrastructure #traditionalenergy #renewables #ai #datacenters #getcsolutions

As we continue to utilize the cloud to drive growth here at Williams it is important we have reliable power to meet the growing demand. Natural gas is that solution.

As artificial intelligence continues to rapidly advance, reliable power sources and infrastructure are crucial. We explore how companies in the energy sector, particularly within renewables, may stand to benefit. https://gxetfs.com/3VdB3CG

As artificial intelligence continues to rapidly advance, reliable power sources and infrastructure are crucial. We explore how companies in the energy sector, particularly within renewables, may stand to benefit. https://gxetfs.com/4bAiOO1

Electric transportation (EVs), data centers, and an AI-driven future will create 3X more power demand/year than seen in decades. This is especially true in #Virginia, where data centers are driving large-scale power load growth. Williams energy infrastructure can store and deliver affordable, reliable, and clean natural gas to meet this growing demand.

Virtual power plants represent a transformative approach to managing distributed energy resources, leveraging technology to optimise and dispatch electricity from multiple sources. By harnessing the collective power of decentralised units, these systems play a crucial role in enhancing grid stability and facilitating the integration of renewable energy. Read and explore the potential of virtual power plants and how they can revolutionise our energy landscape. #VirtualPowerPlants #EnergyInnovation #SustainableFuture

According to The Washington Post, energy demand is skyrocketing due to unprecedented investment in data centers, AI and clean energy technologies. Across the country, utilities — including some of Williams’ largest customers — are feeling the strain, as we’re at risk of running short on power.   Georgia Power’s current load growth projections are 17x higher than forecasted in 2022. In North and South Carolina, Duke Energy reports experiencing 8x the load growth than they projected in 2022.   Increasingly, our power grid is faced with demand for exponential growth that fails to meet currently available power generation. One data center project in the Pacific Northwest will require 60 megawatts of electricity alone — roughly the same amount needed to power 45,000 homes.   As rapid AI innovation continues, and increased electricity demand to support EVs, heat pumps and induction stoves grows, it’s critical to supply the aging power grid with reliable, affordable and clean baseload power and backup power.   Natural gas is the solution to this demand — meeting the energy needs of today while reliably supporting rapid growth. Williams is ready to meet this demand, head on. https://lnkd.in/gNRWbpDh