Ireland ' s increasing share of wind power , a variable energy source , poses challenges for grid management and stability for all grid users , including data centres . To tackle this challenge sustainably , Digital Realty is enhancing its Uninterruptible Power Supply ( UPS ) systems by using the integrated batteries to provide balancing services that help maintain grid stability .

This innovative solution enables more renewable energy to be fed into the Irish power grid while ensuring the grid continues to operate reliably .

Fluctuations in grid frequency are inevitable due to the dynamic nature of

wind power generation and fluctuations in power demand on the Irish grid . Digital Realty ' s UPS systems are designed to seamlessly respond to these fluctuations by swiftly redirecting loads from the grid to batteries in real-time . This adaptive approach plays a crucial role in preserving grid stability , ensuring that grid frequency stays within established operational thresholds .

By safeguarding critical loads and bolstering resilience for data centre customers , this solution effectively mitigates the potential risks associated with grid events , thereby enhancing overall data centre reliability .

The battery banks housed within Digital Realty ' s data centres in Ireland serve as backup power sources for emergencies . These batteries have undergone rigorous testing and approval to provide backup power to the grid , enabling it to increase the use of clean wind power while simultaneously reducing its dependence on fossil fuel power plants during periods of high demand .

Typically , the addition of 1MW of power to the dynamic frequency program has the potential to save the grid approximately 4,000 tonnes of CO₂ per annum . Initially , Digital Realty has integrated 6MW of UPS capacity into the program . When the remaining available capacity is included , it is expected to help the grid save more than 30,000 tonnes of CO₂ annually , depending on customer load .

INTELLIGENT POWER AND COOLING

“ Electricity grids of the future will become increasingly reliant on the formation of mutually beneficial relationships between user , technology and local regulations ,” said John Byrne , Head of Operations for the UK and Ireland , Enel X . “ By adopting this mindset , the infrastructure network that data centre owners create to support their own operations , could also provide valuable resilience to the grid operator that enables it to fulfil the green energy needs of a growing population and economy . Digital Realty is paving the way for other large energy consumers to become part of the solution to the challenges facing our electricity grid today and into the future .” �

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