U N C O V E R I N G T H E L A Y E R S

The ultimate expression of this growing need for energy independence can be found in microgrids – small-scale power systems that operate independently of the grid and generate electricity for a host of use-cases including university campuses, hospitals, industrial manufacturing systems and data centres.

Additionally, microgrids can work in conjunction with traditional power grids, or function autonomously, delivering power from distributed energy resources( DERs) such as solar panels, wind turbines, fuel cells and energy storage systems to exactly where it’ s needed. Furthermore, they can provide additional grid support by providing energy balancing capabilities due to the variability and intermittency of large scale RES.

Small Modular Reactors( SMRs)

With energy challenges continuing apace, some operators are exploring nuclear power generation. Amazon, Google, and Microsoft, for example, have all engaged in direct partnerships to either situate infrastructure near to these systems, or have made commitments to consume energy from existing nuclear power sources.

Another direct avenue for the nuclear path, however, is the development of small modular reactors( SMRs). Based on decades of experience with applications as submarines and icebreakers, there are now around 80 development projects around the world looking, generating capacities of 300MW per system up-to around 500MW.

This new generation of SMRs are based around technologies that are safer and produce less waste, while enjoying a high degree of recyclability in the fuels used. Designs employing technologies such as molten salt, Thorium cycle, and other nontraditional approaches mean safer, more reliable reactors, and are seen as ideal for high demand data centres, and as a basis for microgrids – reducing energy losses, and virtually eliminating the emissions associated with power generation.

Further, all of these innovative energy solutions are being combined with AIenhanced management systems and predictive analytics built on decades of experience in managing complex networks. As such, they allow data centre operators to meet the challenging demand of the AI boom, with high-density and sustainable power solutions, while supporting national grids to develop and bring on more renewable energy in time.

With innovative technologies now providing a vehicle for greater energy independence, the data centres of the future can provide a platform for the responsible and sustainable growth of AI, while playing a critical role in advancing the UK and Ireland’ s digital economies. Further, by harnessing the power of the ecosystem, data centres can be a catalyst for the green transition, and act as a fourth utility that accelerates the development of renewable energy. �

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