Sustainability Begins With Power - How Ups Systems Can Help Achieve Science-based Targets. A Power Control Perspective

As environmental responsibility increasingly dominates the corporate agenda, businesses are under renewed pressure to demonstrate significant progress towards science-based energy targets. These targets, validated by the Science Based Targets initiative (SBTi), align with climate science and aim to limit global warming to below the 1.5°C threshold.

While decarbonisation initiatives might seem far removed from your own power infrastructure, the truth is that Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems can be one of your most effective tools for delivering on sustainability goals and all without compromising on operational resilience.

UPS systems are not just simply a backup power source

Gone are the days when UPS systems were simply deployed just to keep the lights on during a power cut. Today’s advanced UPS technology now supports a more proactive energy management approach, making it easier than ever to reduce both energy consumption and carbon emissions while ensuring continuous energy operation.

The latest high-efficiency UPS systems can reach operational efficiencies of over 98% in online mode, significantly reducing energy waste compared to legacy systems. This translates directly into lower Scope 2 emissions, helping to achieve a key component of many organisations' SBTs.

Smart grids make for smart business

Modern UPS systems can also integrate with renewable energy sources and smart grid infrastructure, dynamically balancing power from the grid, renewable inputs, and stored battery power. This smart grid design helps to reduce reliance on drawing high carbon grid electricity during peak periods and boosts the utilisation of alternative clean energy sources. These smart energy initiatives are an important strategy for achieving science-based carbon reductions, and reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions.

Using intelligent power management is particularly valuable for those organisations looking to reach their ambitious science-based targets, as smart grids help recalibrate the uptake of clean energy sources while minimising reliance on carbon intensive, grid power during peak demand periods.

The ongoing challenge with both SBTi , Scope 2 and Scope 3 emissions reporting is sourcing accurate and reliable data points. In our recent podcast with Zac Potts, Head of Sustainability & Innovation for Critical Environments consultancy experts Sudlows, Zac highlighted that with legacy data centre facilities neither the contractor nor client can readily access 100% of the emissions data, which even includes supply chains and other interconnected power systems in complex critical facilities. 

“We can't provide all the data ourselves, so much like our customers can't provide all the data themselves as to the emissions associated with the project. We can't give them the data associated with the emissions for a project unless we get that from the supply chain as well. 

From our side of things, it is important to look at the system as a whole. When we look at a UPS upgrade, it's not just the UPS. We're looking at the UPS, we're looking at the batteries. We're looking at, potentially, the cooling systems that support those. Maybe looking at modifying the fire detection and suppression system. It does need looking at as a whole.”

Modern UPS features and measurable environmental impact

Today’s UPS systems include real-time monitoring tools that provide clear data on energy usage, Power Usage Effectiveness (PUE), and carbon footprint. This level of visibility is vital when tracking progress against science-based targets, and it enables businesses to identify further opportunities for energy-efficiency.

Modular UPS designs and lithium-ion battery integration also contribute to lifecycle sustainability. These systems offer scalable power, a longer battery life, and less reliance on additional cooling infrastructure, all positive factors which reduce the overall environmental footprint.

Sustainability by design

At Power Control Ltd, we support clients through every stage of this transition to efficiency, from initial energy audits and capacity planning to system integration and reporting. Whether it’s right-sizing your UPS for maximum efficiency or integrating with your Building Management System (BMS), our innovative approach ensures sustainability is embedded from the project start.

Meeting science-based targets doesn’t have to mean sacrificing facility resilience. In fact, with the right UPS system from PCL in place, both are achievable.