Recent posts have covered the attraction of locations that offer renewable energy, typically a combination of hydroelectric power and free air cooling from a temperate/cold climate. But about data centers in hot climates? The question provides a good opportunity to check in on solar power.

One of Vertaique's first posts in 2007 identified California provider Affordable Internet Services Online (AISO) as the only 100% solar data center. We've updated that post many times since then, but never with a new all solar power data center. in fact, a survey article on Data Center Knowledge early this year turned up very little solar activity.

i/o Data Centers in Arizona has been looking at the bright side of its location for a while. In its presentation of energy-saving features, it writes, "Given that our facilities enjoy 300+ days of sunshine each year, we leverage a passive, free source of light to reduce our need for artificial illumination."

 Now, its  new Phoenix One facility will strive to generate 4.5 megawatts from a solar array scheduled to be phased in over the course of 2010. The data center will also combine thermal storage with its solar power to minimize peak electricity purchases. Even then, its massive 5,000 panel solar array will only provide 5% of the needed electricity. The company is also accepting that its solar electricity will cost ~2.5x the current market price.

The bottom line seems to be that, right now, the disadvantages of a sunny climate - greater cooling needs combined with less free air cooling potential - outweigh the benefits of solar generation. This may all change as non-renewable energy costs increase. Companies like AISO and i/o Data Centers are trying to get ahead of the curve.