The Power Shift: Why Smart Data Centres Are Turning to IPS

Data centers are changing rapidly, particularly with the advent of AI, machine learning, and high-performance computing. With that comes a significant challenge: managing increasing power demand.

Based on estimates presented by Tod Higinbotham in his initial article, energy consumption in data centers is anticipated to increase by 400 terawatt-hours from 2024 to 2030, growing at a CAGR of 23%. That's a giant leap—and it's not merely a matter of providing more power. Operators also have to consider safety, space constraints, and sustainability objectives.

That's where Immediate Power Solutions (IPS) enters the picture.

Why It’s Time to Rethink Traditional Backup Power

Previously, most data centers used Energy Storage Systems (ESS), which are excellent for storing energy over extended periods. However, not all applications have the exact needs.

Here's a straightforward way to break it down:

• ESS is all about energy density—how much you can store.
• IPS is about power density—how fast you can deliver power when needed.

Speed is paramount in mission-critical applications such as Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems. When a power surge strikes or a system requires instant support, holding off for a few seconds for power to ramp up will not suffice.

Why IPS is a Game-Changer for Data Centres

IPS is not a buzzword—it's becoming necessary in environments where speed, reliability, and space efficiency are most important.

Some of the main benefits of IPS in a data center environment:

• Instant power response—critical for handling AI and GPU pulse loads
• Smaller footprint—opening up space for additional servers and equipment
• Fewer safety hazards—less likelihood of thermal problems
• Improved support for rack-level UPS systems—guaranteeing uptime without compromise

It All Comes Down to Chemistry

Not the emotional type—battery chemistry.

Traditionally, data centers relied on lead-acid or lithium-ion batteries. But each has its downside:

• Lead acid is large, heavy, and not exceptionally environmentally friendly.
• Lithium-ion is compact but can't always match you when you want instant high power.

That's where nickel-zinc batteries are beginning to excel. They provide:

• A high slew rate (i.e., power transferred at once)
• A reduced footprint is always a benefit in rack-based environments
• Reduced lifecycle emissions, which support ESG and sustainability objectives
• Fewer water use and less toxic substances

In short, they're an excellent match for data center UPS systems— balancing performance and sustainability.

Sustainability Isn’t Just a Buzzword Anymore

Data centers are coming under increasing pressure to cut emissions and become more sustainable. That is particularly relevant for hyperscalers and big service providers struggling to achieve challenging environmental goals.

Tod Higinbotham explains that opting for IPS—especially with more environmentally friendly battery chemistries such as nickel-zinc—can help achieve those objectives without sacrificing performance or reliability.

Wrapping It Up: Future-Proofing with Smarter Power

The future data center will be more innovative, wiser, efficient, and sustainable. IPS helps make it possible.

Operators can make better-informed choices to benefit business development and sustainability by knowing when to deploy ESS vs. IPS and the proper battery technology.

Acknowledgment

This is based on an original article by Tod Higinbotham, COO of ZincFive, a company innovating in nickel-zinc battery technology for mission-critical use cases. You can find the complete original article here. 

All credit goes to Tod Higinbotham and ZincFive for their insights and contributions to this vital topic.