CLOUD & COLOCATION
Q. HOW CAN AI BE APPLIED TO POWER ITSELF?
» The application of digital technologies and AI to the entire powertrain of the data centre from grid to chip has yielded benefits in terms of visibility and optimisation. It has allowed data centres to perfect the microgrid approach that can manage the entire data centre or campus as a self-contained entity. Techniques such as on-site generation, battery energy storage systems( BESS) and smart infrastructure including uninterruptible power supplies( UPS) mean that data centres can become active energy partners to the grid, instead of inflexible loads. Behind-themeter management of energy means that data centres can curtail their usage when needed to relieve grid stress or even disconnect entirely for extended periods where required. Data centres can also provide grid balancing capabilities as more renewables are brought on stream, supporting decarbonisation efforts.
Collaboration between data centre owners and operators and utilities can factor these capabilities into grid operation, facilitating grid development, easing permitting issues and accelerating grid modernisation efforts. Our own participation in the Electric Power Research Institute’ s( EPRI) DCFlex initiative – which aims to explore how data centres can support electric grids, enable better asset utilisation and support the clean energy transition – typifies these kinds of collaborations.
70 August 2026