Data center specialist Digital Realty is working with Schneider Electric to explore how it can reduce its environmental footprint through reuse. A pilot project to replace UPS batteries is in preparation.

Digital Realty and Schneider Electric work together to reduce the sustainability impact of data centers. Schneider Electric specializes in the electrical equipment and cooling that supports servers in data centers, so the initiative takes place there.

The overall goal is to reduce Scope 3 emissions and eliminate greenhouse gases such as SF6, including through a strong focus on reuse. Take-back programs, as well as recycling and refurbishment of existing devices, must ensure this.

Batteries

Specifically, the two parties are starting a pilot project to renew batteries. In the PAR6 data center in Paris, the two want to check whether the existing VRLA UPS batteries can be regenerated. These lead-acid batteries form the heart of the data center’s UPS system, ensuring uninterrupted power supply in the event of a power outage. The capacity of the batteries is very large, so replacing them would have a positive impact on the environment.

The aim is to be the first in the industry to consistently extend the life cycle of VRLA UPS batteries after the evaluation. Schneider Electric and Digital Realty expect to save 50 to 70 percent of the carbon stored in electronic devices over the next five years.