Micro data centres reuse waste heat

The modular units are powered by renewable energy sources

Spotted: Our modern, technology-driven world would not be possible without data and, since 2010, the volume of global internet traffic has increased 25-fold. As new technologies like AI advance, digital demand is only going to increase. And with data centres and networks already responsible for one per cent of energy-related greenhouse gas emissions, it’s vital we find ways to keep the carbon cost down. Enter GreenCompute.

Formerly known as OutdoorCompute, the Netherlands-based startup has two offerings to help companies fulfill their computing needs more sustainably. The main one is GreenCompute’s innovative Cloud Unit, or Micro Data Centre. These small, modular units run on green energy and can be positioned near wind turbines and solar panels for easy energy supply.

Unlike traditional data centres, which generate huge volumes of waste heat that often gets discharged into the air, outdoor Cloud Units capture up to 99 per cent of this energy so that it can be reused, while incorporating patented liquid immersion cooling technology to keep overheating in general to a minimum. This captured energy can then be used to heat homes, swimming pools, greenhouses, and more.

GreenCompute also offers its GreenCloud Plugin, which easily integrates with a customer’s existing cloud infrastructure within a matter of hours. With the plugin, heavy computing tasks are diverted to GreenCompute’s own renewably powered, heat-recycling servers. According to the company, its solutions help users reduce their energy consumption and emissions, as well as save on operational costs and cloud expenses.

In July this year, GreenCompute raised an undisclosed amount of seed funding from the student-focused venture capital firm ASIF Ventures.

Written By: Matilda Cox