AirTrunk’s Renewable Energy Initiatives: Pioneering Sustainability in the Data Center Industry

A pioneer in sustainability in the data center industry.

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Introduction

In an era where sustainable practices are critical to global progress, AirTrunk, a hyperscale data center leader in the Asia-Pacific and Japan (APJ) region, is setting benchmarks with its robust renewable energy initiatives. The company’s ambitious sustainability roadmap, aiming for net-zero emissions by 2030, exemplifies its commitment to integrating green energy solutions into its operations. From groundbreaking solar projects to innovative energy agreements, AirTrunk is driving meaningful change across its facilities.

Video Link: Airtrunk Datacenter

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A New Horizon in Malaysia

AirTrunk’s focus on renewable energy is particularly evident in its Malaysian operations. In November 2024, the company partnered with Pekat Solar to develop a 1-megawatt rooftop solar system at its JHB1 data center campus in Johor Bahru. This project marks a significant milestone as AirTrunk's first on-site renewable energy venture in Malaysia. The rooftop solar installation not only reduces the facility’s carbon footprint but also directly powers its operations with clean energy.

Adding to this achievement, AirTrunk signed Malaysia’s first data center renewable energy Virtual Power Purchase Agreement (VPPA) in collaboration with international renewable energy developer ib vogt. This agreement, under Malaysia’s Corporate Green Power Programme, involves the procurement of renewable energy from a 29.99MW solar farm. The farm, set to begin construction in mid-2024, is expected to significantly contribute to the country’s green energy capacity while powering AirTrunk’s operations sustainably.

Airtrunk has signed Malaysia's first data center renewable energy virtual power purchase agreement.

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Accelerating Renewable Energy in Australia

In Australia, AirTrunk’s renewable energy initiatives have reached new heights through a landmark collaboration with Google and global renewable energy provider OX2. In December 2023, these entities joined forces to establish a 25MW solar farm in the Riverina district of New South Wales. This project is set to bolster Australia’s renewable energy infrastructure by adding new clean energy capacity to the grid.

The solar farm is an example of cross-industry cooperation to address climate goals. It supports Google’s commitment to operating on carbon-free energy by 2030 and aligns seamlessly with AirTrunk’s sustainability vision. This innovative partnership highlights how large-scale energy consumers and renewable energy providers can collaborate to achieve shared goals for sustainability and carbon reduction.

Airtrunk has collaborated with Google and global renewable energy provider OX2, this was done to establish a 25mw solar farm in Riverina south of wales.

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Innovating in Hong Kong

AirTrunk has also demonstrated leadership in renewable energy solutions in Hong Kong. In partnership with CLP Power, the company launched an initiative to match electricity consumption at its HKG1 facility with local renewable energy certificates (RECs). This first-of-its-kind solution supports Microsoft’s sustainability goals while further reducing AirTrunk’s operational carbon footprint.

The success of this initiative was recognized on an international stage when AirTrunk received the 2023 Renewable Energy Markets (REM)™ Asia Award. This accolade underscores the company’s innovative approach to renewable energy adoption, making it a pioneer in clean energy integration within the data center industry.

Airtrunk has also made their way over to Hong Kong, this is with the partnership with CLP power.

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Scaling Commitments to Sustainability

Central to AirTrunk’s sustainability strategy is its commitment to matching 100% of electricity consumption at its facilities with renewable energy by 2030. This pledge reflects a proactive approach to addressing the environmental challenges posed by energy-intensive data centers.

AirTrunk’s FY24 Sustainability Report outlines its achievements and future plans for energy transition. The report provides insights into how the company is leveraging renewable energy solutions to reduce emissions and meet its customers’ sustainability demands. By aligning its efforts with global climate goals, AirTrunk demonstrates that environmental stewardship and business growth can go hand in hand.

By 2030 Airtrunk aims to match 100% of electricity consumption at its facilities with renewable energy.

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Leading the Industry in Sustainability

As the demand for data centers grows, so does their environmental impact. AirTrunk’s initiatives showcase how the industry can evolve to meet increasing energy demands while prioritizing sustainability. The company’s projects across Malaysia, Australia, and Hong Kong exemplify how renewable energy can be seamlessly integrated into large-scale operations.

Moreover, AirTrunk’s emphasis on partnerships amplifies its impact. Collaborating with industry giants such as Google, ib vogt, and CLP Power demonstrates how collective efforts can drive progress. These partnerships not only benefit AirTrunk but also set a precedent for other organizations to follow.

Airtrunk leads in sustainability, the company has proven how renewable energy can be utilized and integrated into large scale operations.

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Driving a Carbon-Neutral Future

AirTrunk’s renewable energy initiatives are more than just a commitment—they are a roadmap to a carbon-neutral future. By investing in solar projects, embracing innovative energy solutions, and forging strategic partnerships, the company is actively reducing its carbon footprint and setting an example for the data center industry.

As the journey toward net-zero emissions continues, AirTrunk’s leadership in sustainability highlights the critical role that renewable energy plays in shaping a greener, more sustainable world. With its forward-thinking approach and dedication to innovation, AirTrunk is not just keeping pace with the industry—it is leading the charge.

Key Takeaways:

• AirTrunk’s rooftop solar installation at JHB1 in Malaysia represents its first on-site renewable energy project in the country.
• A landmark VPPA with ib vogt will power AirTrunk’s operations in Malaysia with solar energy from a 29.99MW farm.
• In Australia, AirTrunk partnered with Google and OX2 to develop a 25MW solar farm, enhancing the country’s renewable energy capacity.
• An innovative energy solution in Hong Kong matches electricity consumption with local renewable energy certificates, earning AirTrunk international recognition.
• AirTrunk aims to match 100% of its electricity consumption with renewable energy by 2030, as outlined in its FY24 Sustainability Report.

AirTrunk is redefining the data center industry with its renewable energy initiatives, proving that sustainability and innovation can coexist to drive meaningful environmental progress. By continually pushing the boundaries of what’s possible, AirTrunk is helping shape a cleaner, more sustainable future for all.