Microsoft Azure: Microsoft partners with Constellation for hourly carbon-free energy matching agreement

Microsoft has teamed up with Constellation to reduce the carbon footprint of one of its data centers in Boydton, Virginia. By signing an hourly carbon-free energy matching agreement with the energy producer, Microsoft's Boydton facility will receive up to 35 percent in environmental attributes from nuclear power.

Further to this, the giant will track its performance on 'around the clock' carbon-free operations using the company's hourly carbon-free energy (CFE) matching platform. Further, the 'landmark' deal reportedly ensures greater assurance regarding energy matching with non-emitting sources.

According to Jim McHugh, executive vice president and chief Commercial Officer, the two companies have been working collaboratively for "several years" to pioneer the technology, adding that it is "fitting" that Microsoft is one of its first hourly CFE matching customers.

"We are confident this agreement will demonstrate the value and impact of hourly matching in the fight to address the climate crisis," he added. 

Meanwhile, Adrian Anderson, general manager of renewable and carbon free energy at Microsoft, commented: "Microsoft is proud to offer technology that enables other climate conscious companies to also reduce their carbon footprint."

 "Our collaboration with Constellation makes real-time matching of regional clean power generation and demand available to all companies that want to advance the energy transition."