Waste Heat Recovery: Transforming Data Center Heat Into Power

Author: Esti Tierney, Product Manager | Centrifugal Chillers at Trane

Source: Trane.com

Northern Virginia has the largest market of data centers in the world, accounting for approximately 13% of global data center capacity. Due to the substantial amount of energy that data centers consume, energy demand in these areas has increased significantly, resulting in higher operational costs for residents and local businesses. The Dulles Technology Corridor, also known as Data Center Alley, is expected to experience a 20% increase in energy bills this summer, largely due to the surge in AI data centers.

Data centers inherently generate massive amounts of heat, and many facilities overlook the potential for waste heat. How can we integrate it into the larger energy network?

As server densities increase and next-generation chips demand more power, waste heat is no longer just a byproduct to be managed — it’s a resource waiting to be harnessed. Waste heat that is recovered and redistributed is mutually beneficial for both the data center and the local energy needs.

Source: McKinsey & Company

The demand for data centers is not expected to slow down; it is forecast to grow by 10% per year until 2030. As they continue to play a significant role in the local economy, it is crucial to leverage available resources and change how data centers coexist with existing infrastructure. This is where waste heat recovery comes in, giving a second life to energy.

How Can Data Center Heat Be Used?

Data center heat can be utilized by implementing a thermal management system designed to effectively control and manage heat. Chillers, pumps, fan coil walls, and cooling distribution units all work together to convert heat into a valuable resource. The most efficient facilities combine air and liquid cooling systems, relying on intelligent controls and services to monitor performance, detect anomalies, and adapt to real-time loads and weather conditions.

Recovering waste heat involves more than just technology and hardware; systems need to operate smoothly, and uptime is essential. Predictive maintenance and performance analytics identify issues early, before they accelerate. Equipment will eventually require servicing, and having trained service professionals who understand both the equipment and the systems is vital to prevent interruptions. At Boland, we have three dedicated Data Center service teams that specialize in maintaining and servicing mission-critical systems to ensure facilities function properly.

Why Does Data Center Efficiency Matter?

Efficient, well-maintained, and optimized systems lower energy use, reduce overall ownership costs, and boost sustainability efforts. As supplies become limited, optimization becomes increasingly critical. Cutting down energy demand on the grid is crucial today and will become even more necessary in the future.

When combined with careful planning and collaboration with local stakeholders, data center heat reuse can foster partnerships with communities. These relationships will be essential as data centers continue to expand and energy prices increase.

The heat is already there. Together, we can give purpose to all the power and energy we already have and turn it into a strategic advantage. Boland is the easy button for starting your heat recovery journey. Work with one of our highly skilled service technicians, energy engineers, and equipment experts all under one roof. Contact us today to get started!

About The Author

Esti Tierney, MBA, is Trane’s Product Manager for ECTV Centrifugal Chillers, bringing over 20 years of expertise in HVAC systems and chillers. Her current role focuses on Data Center applications, a natural fit that aligns with her passion for energy efficiency.