I just read this cool article about the boom in Green IT. The article describes examples like Intel using the excess heat generated by servers to warm other parts of the building. What a brilliant idea! 

When it comes to greening IT systems,  a lot of creative approaches are making a significant impact.  Anything from getting rid of toxic substance used in computers to designing more energy efficiency equipment, it seems I read new announcements regularly in e-newsletters like Greener Computing and Greener Media.

Community Energy is thrilled to now supply one of the first 100%  wind powered data centers in the U.S., BurstNET.  Located in Scranton, Pennsylvania, BurstNET has committed to match 100% of their grid-connected electricity use with wind-generated Renewable Energy Certificates, and a portion of this supply will be sourced from Pennsylvania wind farms!  BustNET’s wind purchase is part of a larger overall strategy to become a greener data center.   Like Intel, BurstNET is also employing innovative heating and cooling methods, utilizing excess heat and cold outdoor air to heat and cool the building.   They are saving money on energy costs by installing energy efficient equipment, LCD monitors, light sensors, and implementing equipment recycling programs to gain a “green” competitive edge in the market. 

In the same article mentioned above, I was astounded to read that data centers are responsible for 1.5 % of all U.S. electricity demand.  So, choosing emission-free energy and decreasing energy use can have a huge impact on the environment.  Companies like BurstNET will surely be reaping the advantages of “going green” by demonstrating leadership in their industry.