Data centers demand uninterrupted uptime while facing rising energy costs and increasing pressure for sustainability. Our energy engineering services navigate these challenges to deliver optimal distributed power solutions tailored to your unique needs.
Incredible Industry Growth [1]
Data centers consumed about 4.4% of total U.S. electricity in 2023 and are expected to consume approximately 6.7 to 12% of total U.S. electricity by 2028.
Data center electricity usage climbed from 58 TWh in 2014 to 176 TWh in 2023. This is estimated to increase to between 325 and 580 TWh by 2028!
Electrifying logistics fleets requires robust energy solutions. Our team designs and implements distributed generation (DG) systems like solar, battery storage, and smart charging to minimize grid impact and maximize efficiency. As detailed in the Rocky Mountain Institute’s report [2], optimized energy management is essential for successful fleet electrification. We provide the energy expertise so you can focus on logistics.
Sustaining modern office environments demands dependable and economical power, impacting everything from occupant comfort to critical equipment performance. Given the average U.S. office's annual electricity consumption of 22.5 kWh per square foot, costing roughly $2.89 at 2024 commercial rates, energy costs and power quality are paramount. [3]
Electric Peak Engineering specializes in evaluating diverse commercial distributed generation options, empowering you to significantly reduce operational expenses and enhance building performance.
Driven by ambitious new climate goals, major retailers are strategically integrating diverse distributed generation (DG) solutions. [4,5] Beyond the prevalent on-site solar and battery storage systems, which enhance both carbon reduction and operational resilience, retailers are also exploring combined heat and power (CHP) for efficient energy use and backup generation. This multifaceted approach underscores a commitment to sustainable, reliable power, tailored to the unique energy demands of large-scale retail operations.
Recognizing the high energy demands of hotels (up to 75 kWh per guest-night) [6], DG systems deliver critical uninterrupted power efficiently. This ensures the seamless operation of all amenities, from climate control and lighting to Wi-Fi and essential services, maintaining optimal guest comfort and preventing disruptions all while saving money on utilities.
The use of parking lots to generate power is becoming increasingly popular. Solar carports generate clean energy during peak sunlight hours, offsetting utility costs and potentially selling excess power. Many business owners now offer employees convenient EV charging, enhancing recruitment and retention through valuable benefits and sustainability initiatives.
For companies with daytime-parked fleets, this becomes a powerful asset, turning idle vehicles into energy storage and showcasing your commitment to a greener future, all while enhancing your bottom line.
Explore these public case studies where businesses and organizations have achieved energy savings, increased resilience, and reduced their environmental impact using distributed energy resources.
Technologies: Combined Heat and Cooling Power (CHCP)
Syracuse University's Green Data Center case study highlights the successful implementation of a CHCP system, achieving a remarkable 50% reduction in energy usage. This 11,900 square foot data center is powered by a 780kW microturbine-based CHCP plant, featuring two redundant arrays of six Capstone model C65 microturbines. The system's ability to simultaneously produce AC and DC power, along with utilizing turbine exhaust for heating and cooling, significantly minimizes environmental impact and demonstrates a commitment to total energy efficiency.
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Technologies: Solar PV
This case study features The Tower Companies' successful implementation of a solar photovoltaic (PV) system on a large office building in Washington, D.C. Driven by a desire to enhance sustainability and attract like-minded tenants, The Tower Companies installed a 30-kW system on their 12-story building, contributing to its LEED Gold and ENERGY STAR certifications. The project navigated challenges related to wind loading, zoning compliance, and utility engagement. The resulting installation produces 37,500 kWh annually, offsetting a portion of the building's electricity use and demonstrating the feasibility and benefits of integrating solar DG into leased commercial buildings.
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Technologies: Solar PV
Link Logistics, a BlackRock Real Assets portfolio company, has successfully implemented a strategy to maximize solar PV deployment on its industrial properties. They've overcome net-metering limitations by effectively partnering with community solar programs, enabling the installation of large-capacity solar systems. This approach has generated a new revenue stream through leasing roof space for solar development. They've also streamlined their solar project implementation process and adapted internal policies, including leasing agreements and due diligence procedures, to facilitate rapid solar deployment. Notably, at their property in Elkridge, MD, they established a solar project as an operating lease, resulting in approximately $1/sq. ft. of annual rental income.
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Technologies: Solar PV
This case study explores Whole Foods Market's strategic initiative to rapidly expand its rooftop solar installations. Facing challenges such as lease constraints, landlord concerns, roof quality issues, and installation oversight, Whole Foods Market developed a portfolio approach and standardized lease language to streamline the process. By establishing standard solar language in their leases, Whole Foods Market is developing approximately 100 new rooftop solar systems through third-party power purchase agreements with NRG Energy and SolarCity. These projects are expected to cover 25% of all Whole Foods Market stores and warehouses, with typical store installations ranging from 100 to 150 kilowatts. These systems are projected to offset 7-8% of energy use per store and 30-50% per distribution center, contributing to a favorable return on investment, predictability in future energy procurement, and environmental benefits.
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