Recording of Monday, June 22, 2026 | The smarter E Europe Conferences 2026 | Language: English | Duration: 14:05 .

Enhancing Data Center Efficiency through Battery Energy Storage Systems

Integrating Battery Energy Storage Systems (BESS) in data centers can significantly enhance grid connection capacity and operational efficiency. Arcadis, a Dutch consulting firm, highlights the critical issue of increasing energy consumption in data centers, projected to double by 2030, while many facilities in Europe operate well below their power capacity. In Germany, power grid limitations lead to high costs and blocked capacity, complicating connection requests for data centers. Effective load management is essential; the load curve influences operational efficiency, particularly with fluctuating cooling demands. Two project variants for BESS integration have been analyzed: one involving separate substations for significant installations, and the preferred variant using a single co-location substation, optimizing space and grid access. BESS implementation reduces energy costs by up to 30% and enhances grid efficiency while minimizing reliance on fossil fuels. These systems facilitate better frequency control and align with sustainability goals, making them an effective solution to current energy challenges in data centers.

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Speaker

Dr. Simon Koch
Senior Project Manager
Arcadis Germany GmbH
Germany

Talk of session: Powering AI: Data Centers Need Intelligent Energy Solutions: Why Not BESS?

Over the past few years, there has been consistent growth in the number of data centers. Immense further growth is expected in the coming years, mostly driven by artificial intelligence. The resulting increase in the demand for energy and grid connection capacity (approx. 80%), highly dynamic load profiles and sustainable backup solutions pose major challenges for operators and project developers. This session will highlight how battery storage is opening up new avenues toward a solution to this problem.

Further Talks of this session:

A New Market for BESS & E-Statcom: Smoothing AI Data-Center Load Patterns

Speaker

Dr. Ralf Bucher
European Chairperson
H&MV GmbH
Germany

To Talk

The Convergence of Power and AI Infrastructure, How Combined Energy Hubs With Generation, Storage and AI Data Centres Reduce Risk and Improve Returns for All Participants

Speaker

Liam Newcombe
SVP Product & Energy Strategy
Greenscale Data Centres
United Kingdom

To Talk

Panel Discussion

To Talk