The demand for energy in artificial intelligence is driving innovative solutions, such as the use of repurposed jet engines to power data centers. Notably, companies like ProEnergy, based in Missouri, are supplying refurbished General Electric CF6-80C2 jet cores, originally designed for aircraft, to meet the urgent energy needs of data centers.
According to a report by Drew Robb in IEEE Spectrum, these high-bypass turbofan engines are being adapted for ground use, providing substantial power generation. The engine cores, initially meant to propel Boeing 767 aircraft, can be modified to generate up to 48 megawatts of electricity. This output is sufficient to power around 32,160 homes, or serve as a critical energy source for AI cluster operations.
Landon Tessmer, the Vice President of Commercial Operations at ProEnergy, mentioned that 21 of these aviation engine generators have already been sold to data centers during their construction phases. Tessmer explained that these engines are intended to serve as primary power sources well into the future, and they also have the potential to function as backup generators once connections to the grid are established.
The growing reliance on such unconventional energy sources reflects a broader trend in the tech industry, where companies are exploring various avenues to secure reliable power amidst increasing demands for data processing and storage. As tech leaders like Sam Altman, Bill Gates, and Peter Thiel advocate for advancements in energy technologies, including nuclear fusion, the immediate needs of data centers are being met through innovative repurposing of existing technology.
This approach not only addresses the pressing energy requirements but also highlights the adaptability of infrastructure originally designed for aviation, showcasing a creative response to the challenges posed by today”s energy-intensive technologies.
