Google has partnered with Italian startup Energy Dome to deploy carbon dioxide (COâ‚‚) battery storage as part of its first long-duration energy storage (LDES) agreement. The deal marks a major step in Google's strategy to power its global data centers with 24/7 carbon-free energy by 2030.

The COâ‚‚-based system stores renewable energy by compressing and expanding COâ‚‚ in a closed-loop cycle, enabling up to 24 hours of storage -- a longer discharge duration than traditional lithium-ion batteries. This makes the solution particularly suited for data centers facing rising power demands from AI and cloud computing workloads.

Under the collaboration, Google will invest in and support multiple LDES deployments worldwide while also advocating for policy reforms that promote grid integration and cost-efficiency in long-duration storage.

Energy Dome's approach is seen as a cost-effective alternative for grid balancing, especially as power demand from hyperscale data centers escalates. Analysts suggest Google's endorsement could help validate COâ‚‚ battery technology for mainstream use, encouraging further industry adoption.

This move follows Google's broader clean energy initiatives, including partnerships with Alliant Energy, Engie, and membership in the Long Duration Energy Storage Council. The company is also exploring various storage technologies, including BESS systems and non-traditional chemistries.

Source: webpronews.com