Recent research led by Xiaoou Liu from the China Power Engineering Consulting Group has introduced an innovative approach to optimizing the cooperative operations of internet data center alliances. This study, published in the International Journal of Electrical Power & Energy Systems, addresses the pressing need for low-carbon economic operations in large-scale internet data centers, particularly in the context of China’s ambitious carbon peak and carbon neutrality goals.
The research focuses on creating a cooperative structure for internet data centers that allows them to trade electricity and carbon credits among themselves. By leveraging what the authors term “diversified flexibility,” which includes technologies like carbon capture and power-to-gas systems, the proposed method aims to enhance operational efficiency while simultaneously reducing costs and carbon emissions.
Liu emphasizes the significance of this approach, stating, “The diversified flexibility and the electricity and carbon trading between members can effectively reduce the total cost and carbon emissions of the alliance.” This is particularly relevant as companies increasingly seek sustainable practices in their operations to meet regulatory requirements and consumer expectations.
The study employs Nash bargaining theory to develop a cooperative optimization model that allocates benefits among data center members based on their contributions to electricity and carbon management. This model not only promotes collaboration but also incentivizes participation by ensuring that the distribution of benefits is fair and transparent.
The practical application of this research was demonstrated in the “East Data and West Computing” project in Qingyang, Gansu, China. The results from this trial run were consistent with theoretical predictions, showcasing the model’s viability in real-world scenarios. Liu notes that the improved alternating direction multiplier method used in their research enhances solution convergence while protecting the privacy of each member, making it a scalable solution for various data centers.
This research presents significant commercial opportunities for various sectors, including technology, energy, and environmental services. As internet data centers continue to grow, the demand for efficient, low-carbon solutions will only increase. Companies that invest in these technologies and cooperative frameworks may find themselves at a competitive advantage, appealing to environmentally conscious consumers and meeting regulatory standards.
In summary, the findings from Liu’s research open up new avenues for collaboration among internet data centers, enabling them to operate more sustainably and economically. As the industry shifts towards greener practices, this cooperative operation optimization method could play a crucial role in shaping the future landscape of data management and energy consumption.
