Frequently Asked Questions About DCIP 

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What is a data centre?

A data centre is a facility or area used to house computer systems and associated components, such as telcommunications and storage systems.  It generally includes rendundant or backup power supplies, redundant data communications connections, environmental controls (e.g. air conditioning, fire suppression) and security devices.

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Who qualifies for the Data Centre Incentive Program?

Any data centre located in Toronto Hydro-Electric System's ("Toronto Hydro) service area.

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How much savings could my company see?

Electricity savings can be as high as 30 per cent.  For every 100 kW of electricity consumption, a data
centre could save more than $20,000 annually and could earn a $24,000 DCIP incentive (based on $800* 30kW peak kilowatt reduction).

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When will the incentive be paid out?

Once the customer submits a Notice of Completion, Toronto Hydro will conduct a project evaluation and determine the actual peak kW reduction and/or annual kWh electricity reduction.  The incentive will then be paid once the customer submits invoices of project costs and an invoice for the incentive to Toronto Hydro.

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What is the first step?

It starts with a commitment by the executive team and CEO toward conservation and "green data centres."  The next step is to develop an integrated plan to address facility and IT design of the data centre.  The plan should address technology components such as the efficiency of its servers (hardware and software capability), placement, utilization and effectiveness of its cooling design.  There are a number of industry resources that provide benchmarks and solutions.

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How do I get started?

For more information about the program, contact us or get started by completing a Project Application.

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What is the impact on the environment?

The program is intended to reduce peak electricity demand.  Since data centres typically operate around the clock, this has a significant impact on the annual energy consumption.  Reduced energy consumption has far reaching effects on the supply and generation side of the industry.  On-going and sustainable benefits may result once companies experience the positive results from their commitment to conservation and "green data centres."

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How do I manage my data centre e-waste?

Toronto Hydro encourages all DCIP participants to take part in a waste diversion plan to dispose of redundant data centre equipment in an environmentally-friendly manner.  Data centre equipment may contain material such as lead, cadmium and mercury, which if not handled properly, could have environmenta impacts and cause health and safety concerns.

To ensure that your unwanted data centre equipment is managed properly, be sure to engage your service provider or visit Do What You Can; a program run by the Ontario Electronic Stewardship, to find a certified e-waste recycler near you.

The OES is an industry funded organization that operates the provincial e-waste program.  A major focus of the organization is setting and monitoring the standards for e-waste collection and processing by municipalities and private recycling companies  The standards are intended to assist in determining if end-of-life electronic products are managed in an environmentally sound manner that safeguards work health and safety and the environment from the point of primary processing to final disposition.  For more information, please visit the OES website.

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Why act now?

There is no better time to start "greening" your data centre in Toronto.  Projects may increase your operating efficiencies, increase electrical capacity, reduce equipment footprint, minimize environmental impact and reduce energy waste.  Toronto Hydro's financial incentives not only enhance your ROI in Year 1, but may lead to continual energy cost savings.

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What are the benefits for vendors?

  1. Incentive payments and electricity savings offer an easier way to justify projects and help build a positive business case for your customers.
  2. DCIP is a great conversation-starter.
  3. Toronto Hydro can help educate sales executives, partners and customers through joint seminars.
  4. Customers will see your company as bringing maximum benefit to each project.
  5. Your company may gain a strategic and competitive advantage.

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APPLY TO DCIP TODAY!

Here's what you'll need to get started:


 HEAR US SPEAK
AT ONE OF
THESE SEMINARS!

 

TALK TO US FIRST!

Engage us before you begin your project to ensure you can take advantage of our incentives.

Tel: 416-542-3388
Email: dcip@torontohydro.com