INNIO Jenbacher has launched its new Jenbacher J620 fast-start natural gas generator for data centers. The aim is to deliver reliable and environmentally sound electricity to feed the consumption requirement of these centers.

Today’s data centers consume about 3 per cent of the total energy generated globally, as they form a vital part of the digital revolution and expanding role of information technology.

The Jenbacher J620 fast-start natural gas generators not only deliver significant advantages for data center backup operations, but they also provide benefits when running parallel to the grid and in island mode.

With built-in fuel storage from the highly reliable natural gas grid, data center operators avoid limited run times and generator refueling. Compared to standby diesel-fueled generators, they also offer emissions reductions of up to 90 per cent for nitrous oxide (NOx) and up to 25 per cent for carbon dioxide (CO2), giving users the flexibility of longer run times. Together with the generator’s fast transient response, users can monetize what otherwise would be stranded assets.

“Along with the surge in data center electricity demand, the share of renewable energy is also increasing”, said Carlos Lange, president and CEO at INNIO. “Fast-start resources like our new Jenbacher J620 solution can balance and accommodate the instability of the electric grid and give data center operators the opportunity to better monetize assets.”

The Jenbacher J620 fast-start natural gas generator provides full load under 45 seconds, along with the additional benefits that come with the ability to run on a variety of operating modes. It also offers data center customers proven reliability, reduced emissions and an opportunity to monetize stranded assets when providing benefits to the electric grid.

With most of the infrastructure being below ground, the natural gas grid is inherently more reliable than the electric grid for fuel supply to the J620 fast start generator.

The Jenbacher J620 fast-start natural gas generator can engage in demand response, curtailable tariffs and/or emergency stand by participation, and avoid coincident peak charges.

Add in lower, stable natural gas fuel costs, and it is easy to see how significant money can be made by savvy data center operators working in partnership with energy providers.