The Case for BESS: Adding Energy Storage to Improve Cost, Resiliency, and Sustainability

Driven by changing dynamics of the electric utility grid, data centers are being pressured to rethink aspects of their operations. A typical data center has 1-2 highly reliable utility feeds for primary power, 1-2 power paths with UPSs for short term backup and emergency generator(s) for long term backup. While sizable fossil fuel power plants are reliable and stable, using their electricity works against carbon neutral and net zero commitments. These facilities are being phased out in favor of more carbon friendly sources like wind and solar power. However, these are intermittent in nature, which leaves data center operators challenged to maximize availability. Additionally, it’s been challenging to keep up with a fast-electrifying world, resulting in a stressed utility grid. Behind-the-Meter Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) are emerging as a pivotal tool for data center executives to navigate this changing landscape. In this executive brief, we discuss the landscape driving adoption of BESS for data centers and provide key design considerations and challenges to help those evaluating BESS.