The surging energy demands of data centers are transforming how power is sourced, managed, and delivered.
We sit down with Eamon Perrel, Executive Vice President of Apex Clean Energy, to discuss power solutions for hyperscalers and data center operators. Eamon shares insights into the increasing role of wind and solar energy, the complexities of energy procurement, and the challenges of integrating renewables into the grid. We also explore the impact of regulatory hurdles, the emergence of microgrids, and how energy teams and data center teams are beginning to collaborate more closely than ever before.
Key Takeaways:
(06:12) Apex Clean Energy’s transition from utilities to serving tech companies.
(21:23) The role of virtual power purchase agreements (VPPAs) in energy sourcing.
(35:16) Hyperscalers and data center operators’ approach to power procurement.
(43:13) The potential of microgrids for more sustainable energy solutions.
(55:47) The impact of regulatory barriers and misinformation on renewable energy adoption.
(01:15:37) The rise of self-generation as a viable option for data centers.
(01:27:48) Land acquisition and permitting challenges that slow renewable projects.
(01:51:19) Future trends in energy procurement and evolving market structures.
Resources Mentioned:
Eamon Perrel
https://www.linkedin.com/in/eamon-perrel-a8b8695/
Apex Clean Energy LinkedIn
https://www.linkedin.com/company/apex-clean-energy/
Apex Clean Energy Website
https://www.apexcleanenergy.com/
Goldman Sachs report on energy demand
https://www.goldmansachs.com/pdfs/insights/pages/generational-growth-ai-data-centers-and-the-coming-us-power-surge/report.pdf
US Department of Energy
https://www.energy.gov/
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