Google's data center power playbook comes into focus

Google said it will work with Michigan utility DTE to add 2.7 gigawatts of new resources in suburban Detroit to power a new data center in the region. The plan includes 1.6 gigawatts of solar power, 400 megawatts of four-hour energy storage, 50 megawatts of long-duration energy storage and 300 megawatts of additional clean resources. The remaining 350 megawatts will be covered by demand response. The deal follows a similar agreement signed last month with Xcel Energy to build a data center in Minnesota. Google will use its Clean Transition Tariff in the DTE arrangement. The tariff was previously used with Xcel Energy and is intended to allow Google to pay a premium to specify the types of power it wants deployed while encouraging utilities to incorporate such technologies into long-range planning. Google also said it is introducing a 10 million dollar Energy Impact Fund intended to reduce utility bills, including by insulating homes. This is the second bring your own power package that Google has touted. Some details of the proposal remain unclear, including whether additional clean resources include natural gas.