Originally posted on Data Center Frontier.
Modern data centers are the backbone of digital operations, supporting AI, cloud computing, e-commerce, and more. As power consumption surges – especially due to AI’s high computational requirements – the need for reliable, efficient, and eco-friendly backup power is greater than ever. While lead-acid and lithium-ion batteries have long been widely used, nickel-zinc (NiZn) technology is emerging as a powerful alternative that is inherently more safe, reliable, and sustainable.

The Limits of Traditional Battery Technologies

Lead-acid batteries have historically been the standard for uninterruptible power supply (UPS) systems, valued for their affordability and reliability. However, in today’s high-demand environments, their large size, short lifespan, and relatively low energy density have made lead-acid batteries a less efficient choice.

Lithium-ion batteries improved on some of these limitations with their compact design and longer lifespan. However, this chemistry presents well-documented risks, including thermal runaway and toxic gas emissions – factors that can carry serious operational and financial implications. Environmental and ethical concerns around lithium mining further complicate its role as a long-term fit for sustainable data center operations.

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