Microsoft Wants To Nix Data Center Backup Generators 141
1sockchuck writes "Data centers operators often tout their diesel backup generators as a symbol of their reliability. So why does Microsoft want to get rid of them? Microsoft says diesel generators are 'inefficient and costly' and is looking at alternatives to supply emergency backup power for its server farms, including fuel cells powered by natural gas. One possible option is the 'Bloom box,' which both Apple and eBay are using in their data centers (albeit with biogas as the primary fuel). Bloom is positioning its fuel cells as a way to forego expensive UPS units and generators, using the Bloom box for primary power and the utility grid for backup. It's a pitch that benefits from the current low price of natural gas." (Microsoft would like to stop using so much water, too.)
Microsoft: hey guys check it out! (Score:5, Funny)
Amazing! we replaced our backup generators....with backup generators! Good thing we don't need those heavily invested generators anymore, we'll just buy more!
Now we don't need generators! /facepalm
Mr. Fusion (Score:4, Funny)
Re:Not the real prob (Score:2, Funny)
Why is your data center in such a location?
Around here all the power lines are underground. That is one reason to pick a civilized place to put a data center.
Re:If it ain't broke (Score:5, Funny)
Propane != Natural Gas.
You try to mix the two, and you will destroy your equipment or cause an explosion.
Thanks for clarifying that, Hank.