Sabey Data Centers Tests Renewable Diesel at Austin Facility
Sabey Data Centers is testing hydrotreated vegetable oil, a renewable diesel made from vegetable oils and waste fats, in backup generators at its Austin data center campus. The pilot aims to reduce Scope 1 emissions while preserving the reliability of emergency power systems, with possible expansion to other Sabey facilities if successful.
Sabey Data Centers has launched a pilot at its Austin campus to test hydrotreated vegetable oil as a drop-in replacement for conventional diesel in backup generators. The renewable diesel can be used without engine modifications and is intended to reduce emissions from one of the more difficult-to-decarbonize aspects of data center operations.
The company will evaluate the fuel’s performance and track its feedstock, which affects its overall climate benefit. Casey Mason, Sabey’s director of energy and sustainability, said the initiative is intended to balance reliable backup power with reduced environmental impacts on surrounding communities. Sabey may expand the testing to other data centers if the Austin pilot is successful.