Aligned Data Center 31 Megawatt Battery: A Game Changer for Efficiency

The Aligned Data Center 31 megawatt battery storage project marks a new era in how data centers access power. This strategic project redefines the industry's approach to overcoming the critical constraint of unprecedented power demand. Developed through a collaboration between Aligned Data Centers and Calibrant Energy, the initiative leverages distributed energy technologies and innovative financing solutions to unlock utility power and accelerate interconnection. By combining on-site energy solutions with a scalable and sustainable model, this project flips the script for large power users, enabling data center operators to scale data center online faster than ever before.

Battery Storage Project Overview

Located at Aligned’s data center campus in the Pacific Northwest, the 31 MW / 62 MWh battery energy storage system (BESS) functions as a dynamic grid asset. This battery system leverages on-site energy to discharge during peak demand periods, bolstering grid reliability and ensuring uninterrupted service for Aligned's customers. Developed using Calibrant’s Path to Power solution, the system accelerates grid interconnection by converting potential grid liabilities into valuable assets. Key equipment such as transformers, switchgear, and batteries, sourced from U.S.-based manufacturers, underscores the project’s commitment to safety and domestic supply chains. This new market defining initiative sets a benchmark for other data center operators seeking to overcome siting and capacity bottlenecks.

Benefits of the Battery System

This battery storage project provides a reliable and flexible power source that addresses the growing strain on traditional utility upgrades. By serving large power users with an on-site energy solution, the system supports load service requirements while reducing environmental impact. The project empowers data centers to access power without waiting years for system upgrades, enabling them to come online and scale operations rapidly. Additionally, the BESS supports grid stability by functioning as a grid responsive asset that discharges energy strategically during peak demand, helping regional utilities maintain balance and reliability. This approach not only benefits Aligned but also offers a blueprint for other markets facing similar power constraints.

Data Center Operations

Aligned’s battery system enhances data center operations by providing a dependable power supply that supports enterprise workloads and high-performance computing demands. The system mitigates risks associated with power outages and downtime, offering uninterrupted service to customers. By reducing reliance on traditional grid infrastructure, the project improves operational efficiency and sustainability. This strategic project redefines how data centers manage energy, combining distributed energy solutions with advanced technology to meet the escalating demands of AI and cloud computing workloads. The partnership between Aligned and Calibrant exemplifies how leading data center providers can take control of their energy future while supporting community and environmental goals.

Strategic Growth

This initiative is more than just a battery storage project; it is a strategic project that supports Aligned Data Centers’ expansion into power constrained markets. By integrating distributed energy technologies and combining innovative financing solutions, Aligned is setting a new standard for sustainable growth. The project unlocks utility power in a way that minimizes environmental impact and enhances grid reliability, providing the tools needed to accelerate interconnection in other markets. As a market defining initiative, it paves the way for other data center operators to adopt similar projects, fostering a future where energy and land enablement align with rapid digital infrastructure development. This effort underscores the importance of partnerships, innovation, and strategic planning in powering the next generation of data centers.

First-of-its-Kind Innovation in Data Center Energy

The Aligned Data Center 31 megawatt battery project is truly first of its kind in the data center industry's critical constraint landscape. It showcases how large scale data center operators can use distributed energy solutions to overcome traditional barriers in accessing grid power. This pioneering battery system functions not just as backup power but as a grid responsive asset that actively supports grid reliability by discharging during peak demand. This innovative approach enables data center providers like Aligned to meet growth objectives while ensuring minimal environmental impact, setting a new standard for sustainable digital infrastructure.

Collaborative Effort Between Leading Data Center Providers

This market defining initiative exemplifies how data center providers like Aligned and Calibrant Energy collaborate to unlock utility power in power constrained markets. By leveraging Calibrant’s Path to Power solution, the system accelerates grid interconnection and converts potential grid liabilities into dynamic grid assets. Said Phil Martin, CEO at Calibrant, “This project flips the script on how data centers access power,” highlighting the transformational impact of this approach. The partnership demonstrates that with the right tools and innovative financing solutions, large power users can take control of their energy future while supporting community and environmental goals.

Supporting Grid Reliability and Sustainability

The battery energy storage system not only enables Aligned’s data center campus to come online and scale operations years ahead of traditional utility upgrades but also supports grid reliability in the region. By strategically discharging energy during peak demand periods, the system reduces strain on the local utility grid and helps maintain balance and stability. This scalable and sustainable model addresses the data center industry's urgent need for reliable power amid unprecedented demand. It also provides a blueprint for other data center operators facing similar challenges, reinforcing the importance of integrating distributed energy technologies into future infrastructure planning.

Unlocking Growth in Power Constrained Markets

Aligned’s strategic project redefines growth in power constrained markets by providing the tools needed to accelerate interconnection without burdening ratepayers. The battery system’s ability to function as a dynamic grid asset transforms Aligned’s load from a potential grid liability into a valuable resource for regional utilities. This approach supports rapid digital infrastructure development while minimizing environmental impact. As a result, Aligned Data Centers is well-positioned to expand sustainably, meeting the increasing demands of AI, high-performance computing, and cloud workloads with confidence and resilience.

A Blueprint for the Future of Data Center Energy

The success of this large scale data center battery project paves the way for similar projects in other markets. By combining innovative financing solutions, on-site energy storage, and strong partnerships with regional utilities, Aligned and Calibrant are setting a scalable model for the future. This initiative demonstrates how industry leaders can address critical constraints, support grid reliability, and achieve growth objectives in an environmentally responsible manner. As the data center industry continues to evolve, projects like this will become essential to powering the next generation of digital infrastructure.