TechSkimm

Google backs hybrid battery project in West Virginia

Google’s teaming up with MN8 Energy and Eos Energy for a first-of-its-kind energy project in West Virginia. They’ll combine large-scale solar with both lithium-ion batteries (charge a few hours) and new zinc-hybrid batteries (hold power much longer) to keep clean energy flowing, even at night. The aim: power a new Google facility with steadier renewable energy and show others how pairing batteries can strengthen the grid.

Why it mattersData centers suck up serious electricity, and keeping them green is tough. If this tech cocktail works, it’s a template for other power-hungry facilities to use more renewable energy without blackouts.

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GooglePrimaryOur new partnership brings long-duration energy storage to West Virginia.12:00 PM

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