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Data Centers

Overview

Data Center Power Needs

The US data center load is estimated to increase by 240 GW (peak) by 2035. This large growth in power demand is equivalent to a population increase of 110 million people. Deloitte projects AI demand alone could rise from ~4 GW in 2024 to ~123 GW in 2035.  

Global Common is helping meet these power needs by working with data operators to identify sights, procure permits, and provide dedicated power supplies. Data centers benefit significantly from having their own power supply rather than relying solely on the public grid. Global Common partners with data centers to improve reliability, security, sustainability and costs.

Our Process

Rapid Deployment Power Supply Strategy

  • Phase 1: Power supply using on-site generation with fuel cells, with grid supply as available.
  • Rapid deployment of 50-150 MW
  • Five-year fuel cell lease
  • CAPEX reduced by ITC and low reduncancy
  • Low emissions streamlines permitting, reduces impacts
  • High reliability with limited redundancy
  • Option for heat recovery using absorption chillers
  • Buys time for grid reinforcements and/or long-lead large scale generation facilities
  • Phase 2: Expansion of grid and/or on-site generation.
  • Potential to expand up to 500+ MW in Phase 2

On-site Power Solution

Fuel Cell Advantages

Fuel cells are electrochemical devices that generate electricity by combining hydrogen with oxygen in a clean and efficient process. Unlike traditional combustion-based power generation, fuel cells produce electricity without burning fuel. This allows them to emit little to no greenhouse gases and operate quietly with minimal moving parts. They are also highly reliable, providing steady, high-quality power with greater efficiency than many conventional generation systems.

Data centers demand continuous, uninterrupted power. Fuel cells can provide a stable, independent energy source that reduces reliance on the grid. Their modular design allows scalability to match growing capacity needs with the rise of AI. Their ability to operate efficiently on-site reduces transmission losses and improves overall energy security. 

  • Fuel cell electrical efficiency 55–60%; overall energy efficiency >75–80% with heat recovery (absorption chillers)
  • 9% redundancy reduces CAPEX
  • Fuel cells eligible for 30-40% ITC
  • Negligible emissions of criteria pollutants (Nox = 0.003 lb/MWh; SOx & PM ≈ 0)
  • 65 dBA noise from fuel cells at 3m
  • Food-grade CO₂ recovery option (Dependent on market demand, Dependent on fuel cell vendor design)
  • Fuel supply-interstate pipeline needed in most cases (RNG integration if requested to reduce GHG emissions)

Successful Project Framework

Data Center Site Criteria

Potential New England Data Center Sites

  • Space - Minimum 50 usable acres. More is better. May be able to minimize required area by stacking equipment.
  • Pipeline access – Access interstate natural gas pipeline, not a local distribution pipeline. This may not be mandatory if the electric grid can provide adequate electric power.
  • Power – Phased approach. Fast-track supply 50-150 MW with potential for up to 500 MW preferred if possible. If adequate grid power is not available, we would provide on-site generation using gas.
  • Fiber/Internet Connectivity – Access to multiple carrier-neutral fiber providers with diverse entry routes, ensuring redundancy and no single point of failure. Connectivity should include dark fiber options and scalable capacity with low-latency backhaul to major internet hubs.
  • Water supply – More is better, but can be designed to minimize water use.
  • Sewers – Access to adjacent or nearby sewer connecting to WWTP with available capacity.
  • Public acceptance – The local public and others would not be opposed to the project.
  • Zoning – Industrial zoning. (Heavy or light?)
  • Site conditions – Brownfield sites may be acceptable, or even preferable, depending on level and type of contamination.
  • Timeline – Customer preference.
  • Other criteria – Contact us to learn more about other criteria.

Find Out More

Find out how Global Common can help your Low Emissions Data Center project

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