Google seeks to sell off surplus power
Google seeks to sell off surplus power
By Robert Clark | Jan 15, 2010
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Google is planning to leverage its massive investment in electricity generation into a new business.
The ever-expanding search and internet firm has set up a new division, Google Energy, which will sell off surplus electricity.
It has applied for approval from the US Federal Energy Regulatory Commission to be allowed to buy and sell power, according to NYTimes.com.
Google told the Times its main goal was to have flexibility in buying renewable energy for its data centers.
“We want to have the ability to procure renewable energy to offset power usage of our operations,” said spokeswoman Niki Fenwick said.
In other recent energy initiatives, Google has launched a home power meter for consumers, while it has also embarked on a program to develop low-cost renewable energy.
If Google’s application is granted, the company would be able to sell any surplus power that results from these or other initiatives, the Times noted.
