The Net Zero Innovation Hub for Data Centers (NZIH) has launched a request for information (RFI) to support the deployment of low-carbon substitutes for diesel backup generators in data centers.

“This RFI is particularly designed to accelerate the deployment of advanced clean technologies by reducing the risk for early commercial projects. And ultimately, bring clean technologies online faster, maximizing their positive impact," Shen Jackson, director of engineering at Google, said.

NZIH will enable deployment through a three-step approach:

• Align, aggregate, and standardize requirements of the data center industry.
• Identify innovative solutions that are scalable and supported by a solid innovation supply chain, which can deliver innovation to GW scale.
• Execute “first of a kind” validation pilot projects at scale, leveraging public and private investments.

The RFI has invited a wide range of companies to submit proposals, including those at the earlier commercialization stage.

Microsoft has already committed to participate in the RFI with a “hydrogen backup generation” solution.

NZIH is a collaboration between Danfoss, Data4, Google, Microsoft, Schneider Electric, and Vertiv. It offers a joint setup for European data center operators and suppliers to scale the solutions to the entire industry and present them to the public.

NZIH focuses on a range of areas to support the sustainability of data centers, including heat reuse, clean energy / 24/7 prime power, clean energy/grid integration of data center microgrids, and material decarbonization.

Several data centers have explored more sustainable options for backup power. The majority of deals have been in the renewable diesel space, with several major operators signing supply deals.

Last month, Nestle Oy signed a supply agreement with European data center operator Verne to deploy renewable diesel at all of Verne’s Finnish data centers.

Data center operators are also looking at using fuel cells for backup in lieu of generators.