The Dominion Energy Innovation Center (DEIC), based in Virginia, has been granted $150,000 by the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Technology Transitions’ Energy Program for Innovation Clusters. The DEIC Virtual Accelerator launches “DEIC Hyperscaled,” a program designed to connect startups specializing in data center-focused energy and sustainability with substantial customers and potential corporate investors. This initiative aims to address key issues within the data center industry, such as energy efficiency and water usage, among others. The program’s launch further cements DEIC’s role in advancing clean energy solutions and supporting early-stage technology companies, as well as Virginia’s prominent position in the global data center sector.

Introduction

By Tim Ryan

DEIC Awarded $150,000

The Dominion Energy Innovation Center (DEIC), based in Ashland, Virginia, has been awarded $150,000 as a Phase 1 winner of the U.S. Department of Energy’s (DOE) Office of Technology Transitions’ Energy Program for Innovation Clusters (EPIC) Round 3. This recognition underscores DEIC’s commitment to advancing clean energy solutions and supporting early-stage technology companies.

DEIC Hyperscaled Accelerator Program

With this funding, DEIC has launched “DEIC Hyperscaled,” a virtual accelerator program aimed at connecting data center-focused energy and sustainability startups with major customers and potential corporate investors. The 11-week program offers education, mentorship, and pathways to pilot projects with partners such as Dominion Energy and QTS. The initiative addresses critical challenges in the data center industry, including energy efficiency, grid infrastructure, water usage, backup power, and design.

Virginia’s Role in the Data Center Sector

Virginia’s prominence in the data center sector is significant, with Northern Virginia’s “Data Center Alley” housing 35% of the world’s hyperscale data centers and facilitating over 70% of global internet traffic. Data centers account for 21% of Dominion Energy’s Virginia power sales, highlighting the importance of innovative energy solutions in this field.

DEIC’s Impact and Recognition

DEIC’s selection as the sole Virginia-based organization among 23 nationwide EPIC Round 3 winners reflects its pivotal role in fostering energy innovation ecosystems. The EPIC program aims to enhance local business productivity and accelerate the commercialization of energy startups.

Conclusion

Through initiatives like DEIC Hyperscaled, the Dominion Energy Innovation Center continues to drive the development of sustainable energy technologies, contributing to Virginia’s leadership in the clean energy sector.

Congratulations to the DEIC team!

Question & Answer

What is the Dominion Energy Innovation Center (DEIC) and what recent recognition has it received?

The Dominion Energy Innovation Center (DEIC) is based in Ashland, Virginia, and has been awarded $150,000 as a Phase 1 winner of the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Technology Transitions’ Energy Program for Innovation Clusters (EPIC) Round 3.

What is the purpose of the DEIC Hyperscaled Accelerator Program?

The DEIC Hyperscaled Accelerator Program is a virtual accelerator program designed to connect startups specializing in data center-focused energy and sustainability with major customers and potential corporate investors. It aims to address critical challenges in the data center industry, such as energy efficiency, grid infrastructure, water usage, backup power, and design.

Why is Virginia significant in the data center sector?

Virginia is significant in the data center sector as Northern Virginia’s “Data Center Alley” houses 35% of the world’s hyperscale data centers and facilitates over 70% of global internet traffic. Data centers account for 21% of Dominion Energy’s Virginia power sales, emphasizing the importance of innovative energy solutions in this field.