Prolonged data center downtime is detrimental to the business, resulting in a possible loss of information and productivity. Although battery-based UPS systems have typically been the only choice for data center back-up and ride-through until the generator can be activated, they are harmful to the environment and can be expensive when replacement costs are factored in. Flywheel technology is emerging as a long-term solution to the traditional battery-based UPS for ride-through power, most notably for the reduction in carbon footprint and reduced operating and energy costs over time.

Identified by Info-Tech as an emerging technology for 2009, flywheels have certainly become a topic of discussion and consideration for the data center. Explore Active Power’s CleanSource offering as an alternative to a battery-based UPS in the data center.