BLACK & VEATCH
Data centre operators, who once focused exclusively on computing and networking, now need expertise in generation technology selection, fuel procurement, environmental compliance and utility coordination.
Supply chain constraints add another layer of complexity. Power generation equipment now carries lead times of five years for some technologies, forcing procurement decisions before final site design completion, essentially requiring operators to bet on capacity requirements years in advance.
But what if these constraints could become opportunities? Behind-the-meter generation enables arrangements that benefit both data centre operators and utilities, while virtual power plant concepts allow utilities to access data centre backup generation during peak demand periods, providing grid support without affecting normal operations while creating revenue streams for operators.
Could nuclear power hold the answer? Small modular reactor( SMR) technology promises clean, reliable baseload power without the massive infrastructure requirements of traditional nuclear plants.
“ Nuclear will be done dramatically differently than in the past, with small modular reactors,” Phil acknowledges.“ That does take time, though we see significant support for this becoming an emerging energy market centred around nuclear technology.”
56 August 2025