Companies save energy by integrating batteries into servers

Given the high cost of electricity, companies are always looking for ways to increase efficiency. This may involve optimizing CPU usage or reducing active cooling, but in the case of Google, Facebook, and soon Goldman Sachs, these companies have found another way go green: integrate batteries into servers.

Data centers spend millions on large UPS systems to provide temporary power during utility outages. A UPS only needs to provide power for a few minutes until generators can be started.

In 2008, Google became the first firm to integrate 12-volt batteries into servers for the same purpose. The technology works likes a charm and now others in the industry are catching on. This new system is not only cheaper and more reliable, but uses less power as well.