Will be used for backup generation.
A proposal from Microsoft to install 128 diesel generation units across its data center portfolio in Cheyenne, Wyoming, is set for approval, according to local reports.
The Wyoming Department of Environmental Quality (DEQ) announced its preliminary decision to approve the permit in April. However, it is currently seeking public comment on the proposal, which, in addition to the diesel units, includes associated storage tanks that will hold upwards of 1.8 million gallons of fuel.
Comments from the public will be accepted until May 21. The agency noted that a public hearing will only be held if a formally "aggrieved party" requests one.
According to Cheyenne Mayor Patrick Collins, the generation units will be used for back-up power, “in case power is interrupted for whatever reason.” It is unclear whether the generation units will be able to run off low low-carbon diesel alternatives like HVO, or hydrogen-associated fuels.
The proposed permit would authorize specific emission levels of pollutants such as nitrogen oxides (NOx), sulfur oxides (SOx), and volatile organic compounds (VOCs). These substances are known to contribute to the formation of ozone and haze, according to documents submitted to the state.
According to Collins, Microsoft has plans to build four new facilities in the local area.
Microsoft has had a data center presence in Wyoming since 2012 and expanded its footprint there in 2014. The West Central Azure region opened in 2016.
In 2021, the company opened two new data centers in Cheyenne. One of the facilities is located in the Cheyenne Business Parkway, and another in the Bison Business Park.
Last January, the company partnered with power equipment manufacturer Caterpillar in a pilot project to test the viability of using hydrogen fuel cells to supply reliable and sustainable backup power to a data center for 48 hours.
The project, which was successfully completed, used a large-format hydrogen fuel cell system to power Microsoft’s facility in Cheyenne, Wyoming, during a simulated two-day backup event.
