Justin Lenoff
Clarke Energy | Group Application Manager - Microgrids
Speaker
Track C: Decarbonization and Electrification Strategies
Session C3: Transportation and Grid Electrification
March 12, 2026 | 2:00 pm - 3:00 pm
Powering Artificial Intelligence – Rapid Deployment of Hybrid Gas Solutions for Volatile AI Loads
As AI workloads drive explosive energy demand and create load volatility, data centers face mounting pressure to deploy resilient, efficient power systems—fast. This session explores hybrid energy strategies built on gas engines, battery energy storage (BESS), and Combined Cooling, Heat, and Power (CCHP) to meet these challenges. We’ll discuss real-world considerations including gas supply logistics, lead times for engines and BOP, and how CCHP can convert waste heat into chilled water to improve effective PUE and ESG outcomes. A comparison of lithium-ion and graphene-based storage technologies will highlight key trade-offs in cycle life, reliability, and deployment timelines. With a focus on sizing, inverter selection, and prime mover strategy, attendees will gain actionable insight into designing systems that manage AI-driven load volatility without sacrificing uptime or sustainability. Learn how Clarke Energy is helping data centers future-proof operations while navigating grid limitations, procurement risk, and the transition to hydrogen-ready infrastructure.
Speaker Bio
Justin Lenoff is a microgrid and energy systems expert specializing in hybrid power solutions, energy storage, and advanced controls. As Group Applications Manager at Clarke Energy, he leads the design of Distributed Energy Resource (DER) systems, including BESS, CHP, solar, and EMS/PLC integration. He oversees feasibility studies, vendor selection, and long-term service agreements to balance resilience, cost, and carbon reduction goals. His portfolio includes over 100 MW of hybrid deployments across the U.S., UK, Australia, and Sub-Saharan Africa, including a $52M DOE-funded long-duration solar microgrid in Arizona.
Justin previously held roles at Vertiv, where he led grid-scale BESS development, and Xerion Advanced Battery Corporation, securing $3.8M in R&D funding. He began his career managing a nanotechnology program for the U.S. Air Force.