What's Happening?
Utility Dive reports on the potential of distributed energy resources (DERs) to accelerate data center interconnection. As data centers face delays due to electric grid constraints, DERs offer a solution by creating spare capacity on the grid. This approach involves utilities, data center developers, and distributed energy companies collaborating to harness DERs, such as batteries and flexible loads, to overcome grid bottlenecks and bring more compute capacity online faster.
Why It's Important?
The integration of DERs into data center operations could significantly reduce interconnection delays, enhancing the efficiency and scalability of data centers. This development is crucial as the demand for data processing and storage continues to grow, driven by advancements in technology and artificial intelligence. By leveraging DERs, data centers can achieve faster interconnection, reduce energy costs, and improve grid resilience, benefiting both the tech industry and local communities.
