By Derek DiFant
BC Hydro spends significant resources on programs to conserve energy as it is much cheaper than generating new power and more sustainable for the Province. BC Hydro has created the first I.T. based incentive program which allows customers undertaking server virtualization programs the opportunity to receive funding from BC Hydro towards the project.
The client pays nothing as the study is funded 100% by BC Hydro. The incentive is significant and in some cases pays for the cost of the virtualization hardware entirely. The client first engages with BC Hydro to do a quick, high level study to see if they are eligible for the program. If they are eligible, BC Hydro provides a pre-qualified consultant to do the detailed study and verify the numbers as an independent third party. Upon completion of the virtualization program, the client receives "x" number of cents per KWh saved. This can easily become savings in the tens of thousands of dollars range.
A good rule of thumb to determine if your organization is eligible is the following:
- Your organization spends greater than or equal to $50,000 per year on electricity.
- The project saves at least 100,000 KWh/year.
- Minimum of approximately 50 servers in operation at 228W each (or equivalent).
For more details on this incentive program, please visit:
http://www.bchydro.com/powersmart/commercial/data_centre_and_server.html
If your organization is interested in this program, please contact Sean Marthinsen at Annex Consulting Group at (604) 699-8645 or smarthinsen@annexgroup.com. We can arrange for a qualified consultant to discuss the program and perform the study for eligible clients.
This is just the start of such programs to come from BC Hydro and we will be there to help on each one that becomes available to client organizations, as part of our green service offerings. We can also point you to the right BC Hydro contact to begin the process.
We look forward to helping your organization save money and electricity!
About the Author
Derek DiFant is a technical specialist who plays the role of Team Lead, Architect or Project Manager on large-scale infrastructure projects. He has 12 years of industry experience with a strong background in health care.