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AWS presentation says Calverton campus could draw on nearby transmission and bring efficiency gains; transmission costs to be borne by AWS
Summary
AWS energy lead explained that the proposed Calverton campus sits adjacent to a nuclear plant and multiple high-voltage lines, that utility interconnection studies will be lengthy, and that AWS will pay transmission and supply costs while pursuing efficiency and renewable procurement.
Mike Fredette, who leads AWS's energy team, told attendees that data centers require highly reliable, scalable electricity and that AWS follows three core principles: pay their full share of electricity costs, operate more efficiently, and operate more sustainably.
Fredette said the proposed campus is adjacent to an existing nuclear facility and is crossed by three extra-high-voltage transmission lines, which presents an opportunity for reliable service but will require multi-year utility and transmission studies before interconnection. He also said that because the site is in SMECO territory (a local cooperative), a large new load would become a cooperative member and that AWS expects to bear long-term transmission-related costs regardless of whether all capacity is used.
On efficiency, Fredette cited AWS's global Power Utilization Effectiveness metric: "Globally, we're at a 1.15 PUE, which is 25%, more efficient than the industry standard of 1.58," and said AWS is investing in renewables, batteries and other technologies in pursuit of its broader carbon pledge.
Fredette said studies are ongoing and that AWS will engage utilities including Baltimore Gas and Electric, Constellation and SMECO to ensure the facility can be served reliably without negatively impacting the surrounding community.
