Samsung SDS collaborates with Enel X Korea for a Sustainable Grid

Samsung SDS Suwon Center is a major data center located in Suwon, South Korea. As one of Korea’s leading digital infrastructure providers, it plays a critical role in IT operations, requiring reliable, high-volume electricity to ensure uninterrupted service. In response to rising sustainability standards and grid challenges, Samsung SDS sought to optimize its energy usage and contribute to national decarbonization efforts.

As new energy regulations emerged, data centers like Samsung SDS began facing limitations on new infrastructure due to their high electricity demand.

Data centers are known to be one of the largest consumers of electricity, which can put strain on local electricity grids. Samsung SDS was looking to innovate its electricity use, to positively impact its local community and advance the decarbonization of the grid.

Despite prior participation in Demand Response programs with other operators, the center lacked access to detailed and actionable information about power monitoring, the energy trading markets, and electricity usage optimization. The knowledge gap made it difficult for Samsung SDS to maximize the benefits of Demand Response participation while ensuring seamless operations. Maintaining operational stability was also a constant priority.

Enel X Korea provided Samsung SDS with tailored support, offering actionable insights into the electricity market and energy efficiency, real-time power monitoring tools, and advanced notifications for Demand Response dispatch events. In addition, a customized participation plan was developed to align with the operational characteristics of the data center.

This comprehensive approach enabled Samsung SDS to participate actively in the Demand Response program with minimal disruption to its mission-critical operations.

To manage operational demands, Enel X provided advance notifications of Demand Response dispatch requests, allowing the center to schedule and prepare in advance. By optimizing its self-generated power resources, the Samsung facility ensured the stability of onsite electricity supply even during Demand Response dispatch events when power load curtailment is required.

Participation in the Demand Response program demonstrates Samsung SDS’ commitment to being an environmentally conscious operator by actively contributing to a sustainable energy future.

Samsung SDS benefits from Demand Response participation in several ways. Including: supporting the grid and being a ‘good grid citizen’ to empower sustainability,  enhanced operational stability through allowing the immediate curtailment of power during Demand Response events, and reduced electricity costs whilst generating consistent revenue. By leveraging its self-generation capabilities, Samsung SDS further optimizes its resources, maintaining performance without significant disruptions.

Since Demand Response plays a crucial role in the renewable energy transition by helping to balance fluctuations in supply from sources like solar and wind. By adjusting consumption in real-time, Samsung SDS facilitates greater integration of clean energy into the grid, reducing reliance on fossil fuels and reinforcing its commitment to sustainability. These benefits underscore the value of the Demand Response: sustainable and profitable, which is an indispensable energy management strategy for businesses.

The Samsung SDS case study is based on a partnership developed with Enel X Korea. Enel X operates in 14 countries around the world, it is currently the largest Demand Response Virtual Power Plant in Taiwan, helping hundreds of businesses participate in the electricity market using their existing demand flexibility, generating revenue while supporting grid stability.

Contact us to learn how you can turn your electricity costs into sustainable returns today.