In the bustling world of data centers, where computing power and electricity consumption go hand in hand, a groundbreaking study led by CHEN Min and his team from Tsinghua University and ByteDance Co. Ltd. has uncovered a novel way to harness the hidden potential of integrated backup and energy storage batteries. Published in ‘Dianli jianshe’ , the research explores how these batteries can be leveraged to not only enhance the performance of data centers but also to provide significant benefits to the electricity grid.
The study, which focuses on the idle flexibility of integrated backup and energy storage batteries on the high-voltage direct current (HVDC) side of communication power supplies in data centers, presents an innovative application scenario. This scenario not only enhances the supported workload of cabinets, enabling premium applications, but also provides load flexibility to the grid. This flexibility can be harnessed to obtain compensation from electricity ancillary service markets, ultimately reducing electricity costs.
“The inherent load flexibility within data centers is a key to achieving synergy between computing power and electricity,” explains CHEN Min, the lead author of the study. “By exploiting this flexibility, we can create a win-win situation where data centers can optimize their operations while also supporting the grid.”
The research delves into the principle behind this application scenario and discusses the value assessment under different scenarios. This theoretical foundation is crucial for determining the idle flexibility of HVDC-side integrated energy storage and backup batteries. The findings suggest that data centers can play a more active role in the electricity market, not just as consumers but also as providers of valuable services.
The implications of this research are far-reaching. For the energy sector, it opens up new avenues for grid stabilization and cost reduction. Data centers, which are often criticized for their high energy consumption, can now be seen as potential allies in the quest for a more flexible and resilient electricity grid. This shift could lead to significant commercial impacts, as data centers can monetize their unused capacity and contribute to a more sustainable energy landscape.
The study also highlights the importance of exploring the synergy between computing power and electricity. As data centers continue to grow in size and number, their role in the energy sector will become increasingly important. By understanding and harnessing the flexibility of integrated backup and energy storage batteries, we can pave the way for a more integrated and efficient energy ecosystem.
The research, published in the journal ‘Dianli jianshe’ (Power Construction), provides a compelling case for rethinking the role of data centers in the energy landscape. As we move towards a future where computing power and electricity are more closely intertwined, the insights from this study will be invaluable in shaping future developments in the field.
