Intel testing solar power for data centers

Posted on Sunday, January 25 2009 @ 6:05 CET by Thomas De Maesschalck
Data Center Knowledge reports Intel is giving photovoltaic (PV) panels a tes trun at its data center in Rio Rancho, New Mexico:
The array of 64 Sharp solar panels will generate 10 kilowatts of electricity, just a fraction of the amount needed to power most data centers. But the project could “potentially lead the way for a more aggressive solar program within Intel,” according to Marty Sedler, Intel’s director for global utilities and infrastructure.

Intel’s John Miner told local media the solar array will be used with data center containers, which require less total power than traditional data centers. The project also examine the potential for solar panels to provide supplemental power during the summer, when local utilities see peak usage and are most likely to face capacity challenges.

Solar energy hasn’t been widely used in data centers because of the large amounts of energy required to power the servers and cooling equipment in modern mission-critical facilities. It requires a very large installation of PV solar panels to produce even a fraction of the energy required by most data centers.


About the Author

Thomas De Maesschalck

Thomas has been messing with computer since early childhood and firmly believes the Internet is the best thing since sliced bread. Enjoys playing with new tech, is fascinated by science, and passionate about financial markets. When not behind a computer, he can be found with running shoes on or lifting heavy weights in the weight room.



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