Case Study

VoltaGrid’s Rapid Deployment of Microgrid Solutions for a Data Center in the Southwest United States

Overview

A leading data center in the Southwest United States faced a critical situation when its planned utility power fell through due to supply chain issues and unforeseen conditions. Originally in discussions with the utility company for a traditional power setup, the data center had to pivot to diesel-powered generators from another vendor to keep operations on track.

Challenge

The data center needed a reliable and immediate power solution to avoid costly delays. The reliance on diesel generators was not only expensive but also posed significant environmental concerns. The center urgently needed a cleaner, cost-effective, and quickly deployable power alternative.

Solution

VoltaGrid provided a comprehensive solution with its natural gas microgrid technology, utilizing compressed natural gas (CNG).

This involved:

  • CNG Station Installation: To ensure a steady supply of CNG, VoltaGrid installed a temporary CNG station near the data center, ensuring a reliable fuel source until the permanent pipeline was completed.
  • Cost Efficiency: By switching to CNG, the data center saved over $38 million compared to diesel generators.
  • Environmental Impact: CNG emits about 30% fewer greenhouse gases than diesel, significantly reducing emissions and supporting the center’s sustainability goals.
  • Rapid Deployment: VoltaGrid’s ability to quickly mobilize and install the microgrid meant the data center could begin operations sooner than anticipated.
  • Scalability: The microgrid was designed to scale with the data center’s growth, offering flexibility for future expansion.

Results

VoltaGrid’s intervention transformed the data center’s power strategy:

  1. Substantial Savings: The center realized over $38 million in savings by opting for CNG over diesel.
  2. Operational Continuity: VoltaGrid’s rapid deployment ensured that the data center was up and running quickly, avoiding delays that could have been caused by relying on diesel generators.
  3. Sustainable Operations: The data center now benefits from a cleaner energy source, contributing to its long-term environmental goals.

Conclusion

VoltaGrid’s innovative microgrid solutions provided the data center with a faster, cleaner, and more cost-effective power solution than originally planned. The deployment of CNG microgrids, along with the installation of a temporary CNG station, not only met immediate power needs but also set the foundation for sustainable growth. This case underscores how VoltaGrid’s expertise in microgrid technology can deliver reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly power solutions for high-demand applications.