In a significant move toward greener operations, Swedish data center operator EcoDataCenter has transitioned its mtu emergency power generators from fossil diesel to Hydrotreated Vegetable Oil (HVO), a sustainable alternative fuel. This shift aligns with the company’s mission to deliver secure, sustainable data center solutions while minimizing environmental impact. The transition not only underscores EcoDataCenter’s commitment to sustainability but also positions the company as a leader in sustainable practices within the Nordic data center market.
A Bold Step in Sustainability
EcoDataCenter, headquartered in Falun, Sweden, has long been recognized for its innovative and eco-friendly approaches. From utilizing cross-laminated timber (CLT) in its data center frames to supplying excess heat to a nearby biofuel factory, sustainability is at the core of its operations. The latest decision to switch to HVO100 (Neste MY Renewable Diesel) for its 32 mtu Series 4000 engines further reduces its carbon footprint while maintaining high performance.
HVO is a renewable fuel that significantly lowers greenhouse gas emissions—by up to 95% over its lifecycle compared to fossil diesel. It also reduces local pollutants, including an 80% decrease in particulate matter and an 8% average reduction in nitrogen oxide emissions. These environmental benefits make HVO a game-changer for industries aiming to decarbonize operations without compromising efficiency.
Powering Sustainability with mtu Engines
Emergency backup power is critical for data centers, ensuring uninterrupted operations even during grid outages. Since 2017, EcoDataCenter has relied on mtu gensets from Rolls-Royce’s Power Systems division to meet this need. The engines have consistently provided reliable power, and with the shift to HVO, they now offer an added advantage of sustainability.
The seamless transition was made possible due to HVO’s compatibility as a drop-in fuel. This means that existing diesel infrastructure, engine hardware, and software required no modifications to accommodate the new fuel. Rolls-Royce Power Systems had already approved 80% of its mtu diesel engine portfolio for HVO and other EN15940-standard fuels by early 2022, further simplifying the transition process.
Mikael Svanfeldt, CTO of EcoDataCenter, highlighted the importance of this shift:
“Moving away from fossil fuels is one of the foundations for a successful energy transition. With mtu emergency backup gensets and HVO from Neste, we were able to implement this without having to invest in new equipment.”
Reliable Performance Backed by Testing
EcoDataCenter’s switch to HVO was not made lightly. The decision followed rigorous technical analyses, documented test runs, and guarantees provided by Rolls-Royce Power Systems, fuel manufacturer Neste, and BOS Power, a local mtu partner in Scandinavia.
The tests confirmed that HVO-powered mtu engines deliver the same or better performance compared to fossil diesel. Maintenance intervals and operational safety were unaffected, ensuring that the transition to HVO did not compromise reliability—a critical factor for data center operations.
Tobias Ostermaier, President of Stationary Power Solutions at Rolls-Royce, emphasized the importance of customer-centric solutions in the energy transition:
“It is our strategic goal to provide our customers with reliable and efficient solutions that support them in their energy transition.”
The Role of HVO in Emergency Power Systems
HVO offers unique advantages for emergency power systems. Unlike biodiesel, it has a longer shelf life, making it an ideal choice for applications where fuel must remain stable over extended periods. Additionally, its compatibility with existing diesel engines and infrastructure reduces costs and complexity for operators.
For data centers like EcoDataCenter, these attributes are invaluable. Emergency power systems are a critical part of their operations, ensuring data security and uptime during power outages. The ability to integrate a sustainable fuel like HVO without disrupting operations is a significant achievement in the journey toward greener data centers.
A Growing Demand for Sustainable Digital Infrastructure
As global digitalization accelerates, the demand for sustainable data centers has never been greater. Operators are under increasing pressure to reduce their environmental impact while maintaining high standards of reliability and performance.
EcoDataCenter’s initiatives, such as using renewable energy sources, employing energy-efficient designs, and switching to low-emission fuels, set a benchmark for the industry. These efforts align with broader global goals to reduce carbon emissions and promote sustainability in all sectors, including digital infrastructure.
A Vision for a Greener Future
EcoDataCenter’s decision to transition to HVO fuel exemplifies how businesses can take proactive steps toward sustainability without compromising operational excellence. By leveraging innovative solutions and collaborating with trusted partners like Rolls-Royce and BOS Power, the company demonstrates the feasibility and benefits of integrating greener practices into mission-critical operations.
This initiative also highlights the growing role of renewable fuels like HVO in achieving global decarbonization goals. As industries face mounting pressure to address climate change, the successful implementation of HVO at EcoDataCenter serves as a model for others to follow.
Conclusion: Pioneering Sustainability in the Data Center Industry
EcoDataCenter’s switch to HVO fuel is a testament to the company’s unwavering commitment to sustainability. By integrating renewable fuels into its operations, the company not only reduces its environmental impact but also sets a standard for sustainable practices in the data center industry.
This transition showcases the power of innovation, collaboration, and determination in driving meaningful change. As global demand for sustainable digital infrastructure continues to grow, EcoDataCenter’s efforts provide a blueprint for creating greener, more resilient operations in the digital age.