Data Centre LIVE: Microgrids and Sustainability - AVK

Kicking off the keynotes at Data Centre LIVE, Bob Downing, VP of Sales (Energy Solutions) at AVK-SEG LTD, delivered a detailed and highly practical overview of microgrids and their transformative role in the data centre sector – especially in supporting the AI boom. 

Bob provided a deep dive into definitions, design, fuel options and emissions strategy, positioning microgrids as a vital part of Europe's sustainable digital infrastructure.

Defining the microgrid and its purpose

Bob began by clarifying a common misconception. “Microgrids aren’t new or experimental,” he said. “They’re already part of global energy networks – what’s new is how we deploy them.”

Unlike peaker plants or generic backup power systems, microgrids are designed to serve specific, often mission-critical loads – like hyperscale or AI-focused data centres. 

Ranging from 5MVA to 400MVA, they can run independently of the grid (island mode) or supplement strained utility networks.

With AI workloads driving demand for high-density, high-uptime compute, Bob outlined why microgrids offer the ideal solution. 

“AI training doesn’t need low latency – it needs power. Moving data is cheaper than moving energy. So why not place AI workloads in low-carbon regions?”

He also noted that microgrids are far quicker to deploy than traditional infrastructure. 

“We’re talking 12 months from engineering to completion,” he said. “Compare that to a power plant taking 30 years.”

Use cases of microgrids

Bob laid out several scenarios where microgrids are ideal:

• No utility power or long delays to grid access.
• Grid capacity is insufficient for a data centre scale.
• Enhanced energy resilience is required.
• Local energy export or balancing is part of the strategy.
• Client requires control over emissions and accountability.

To meet these needs, Avic remains technology-agnostic, mixing and matching:

• Fuel cells – running on gas or hydrogen.
• Medium- and high-speed reciprocating engines – offering modular deployment.
• Gas turbines – with options for heat recovery and tri-generation.
  Energy storage – using batteries for load balancing and resilience.

Bob emphasised that hybrid designs often yield the best results. “It’s not one-size-fits-all. The right combination depends on your load, location, and timeline,” he said.

Ancillary tech, fuels and emissions

A critical part of Bob’s presentation focused on emissions reduction. He explored the role of ancillary technologies such as:

• Selective Catalytic Reduction (SCR) to cut NOx emissions.
• Carbon capture systems (expected to scale in the near term).
• Tri-generation using waste heat for cooling or district heating.
• Hydrogen production for fuel blending or local use.

When it comes to fuel, Bob was clear: “Natural gas is a stepping stone – not the destination.” 

It’s significantly cleaner than coal, but Avic’s long-term designs include pathways to:

• Hydrogen blending and pure hydrogen.
• Biofuels and synthetic fuels (currently in advanced testing).
• Renewables where viable, supported by robust storage or backup generation.

Fuel readiness, he said, should always be factored in. “We design with today’s fuel in mind, but build for tomorrow’s,” he said.

Planning for AI: load behaviour and design risk

AI’s impact on energy design is still evolving, but Bob warned that the industry must act now. 

“AI loads behave differently – short bursts, harmonic distortion and fast current changes. That have implications for both design and operation.”

To manage this, Avic recommends close assessment of load steps (e.g. 10%, 20% bursts), power factor and waveform distortion, how UPS and switchgear will behave under stress and the long-term shift toward liquid cooling as density increases.

“This isn’t just about having enough power – it’s about understanding how your load behaves and building infrastructure to support that,” Bob said.

He also made the case for microgrids as better partners for renewables: “They fill the gap when the sun isn’t shining or wind isn’t blowing. Without firm power, the grid can’t function.”

Communities, risk and recommendations

In closing, Bob touched on broader benefits, particularly public engagement. 

“District heating can help win over communities. If your data centre heats local homes, you’re part of the solution, not the problem.”

Asked whether microgrids introduced new risks, Bob didn’t shy away: “If designed poorly, yes. But with the right planning, engagement and engineering, they increase resilience and reduce risk.”

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