Digital Realty Taps Solar Power for Illinois Data Centers

• Digital Realty partners with Summit Ridge Energy to power Illinois data centers with solar energy, advancing sustainability and cost savings by 2026.

Digital Realty has entered into an agreement with Summit Ridge Energy to source green power for its data centers in Northern Illinois. The deal involves purchasing electricity from 5.1 MW of photovoltaic capacity and renewable energy credits. Summit Ridge will supply the electricity from three solar plants in Illinois, expected to be operational by late 2025 to early 2026. This initiative will help Digital Realty offset energy consumption at its Illinois sites, support sustainability goals, and achieve energy cost savings.

Previously, Digital Realty secured 347 GWh of wind and solar power for its operations in Spain and France. The company, which operates over 120 data centers globally, aims to reduce its Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 68% and Scope 3 emissions by 24% by 2030. Aaron Binkley, vice president of sustainability at Digital Realty, emphasized the company's commitment to sustainable energy solutions aligned with global carbon reduction goals.

How will Digital Realty's new solar agreement impact its sustainability and cost goals?

• Enhances Digital Realty's renewable energy portfolio, contributing to its global sustainability targets.
• Supports the company's goal to reduce Scope 1 and 2 emissions by 68% by 2030.
  
• Provides a stable and predictable energy cost structure, potentially reducing operational expenses.
  
• Strengthens Digital Realty's reputation as a leader in sustainable data center operations.
  
• Aligns with global carbon reduction goals, reinforcing the company's commitment to environmental responsibility.
  
• Offers a model for other data center operators to integrate renewable energy into their operations.
• Contributes to local economic development through the construction and operation of solar plants in Illinois.