Repurposed Jet Engines Powering Cutting-Edge Data Centers
As the demand for energy grows in the tech sector, innovative solutions are emerging to meet this need. One of the most surprising strategies involves the use of repurposed jet engines to power modern data centers.
Repurposed Jet Engines Empower Data Centers
The modern technology landscape is heavily reliant on energy, especially with the rise of artificial intelligence. Data centers, which house vast amounts of computing power, are crucial in this ecosystem. To address their substantial power requirements, some companies are turning to an unconventional source of energy: jet engine cores.
ProEnergy’s Innovative Approach
Missouri-based ProEnergy has become a key player in this field by providing repurposed General Electric CF6-80C2 jet cores. These high-bypass turbofan engines were initially designed to propel Boeing 767 aircraft. However, with the right modifications, these engines can generate significant power for data centers.
- Each engine can produce up to 48 megawatts of electricity.
- This output can power approximately 32,160 American households.
- ProEnergy has sold 21 engine generators to data centers under construction.
Future of Energy Solutions
According to ProEnergy’s commercial operations vice president, Landon Tessmer, these engines are not just a stopgap measure. They are intended to remain operational long after the data centers begin functioning. Furthermore, they may serve as backup generators once grid power becomes available.
This innovative energy solution illustrates a growing trend where traditional aerospace technology meets the demands of cutting-edge data processing capabilities. As energy requirements continue to rise, more companies might explore similar adaptations.
