Are utility companies needed for pull-the-plug testing? 

The testing of backup power systems is crucial for ensuring that data center operations remain available through power interruptions. By cutting all power to the facility and replicating a real-world electrical grid failure, pull-the-plug testing provides the most comprehensive assessment of these systems. However, there are some differing opinions on the best way to perform the test and whether the electrical utility company needs to be involved.

Results from the Uptime Institute Data Center Resiliency Survey 2023 found that more than 70% of organizations perform pull-the-plug tests (Figure 1), and of this group, roughly 95% do so at least annually. At the same time, less than half of operators involve their utility company in the process — raising questions over the best practices and the value of some approaches to performing the test.