Another technique is to design power and cooling systems divert power from areas where it cannot be used. Stranded power can result in millions of dollars of unused capacity. For example, you may have an area set up to receive a specific amount of power, but the equipment installed there does not use the capacity. While this power is unused, a power shortage might exist nearby. To ensure that power goes where it is needed, Microsoft develops flexible designs that allow power and cooling systems to be reconfigured and share power.
Another method is to locate hardware where it is most efficient for power and cooling. In some situations, it’s impossible to put a piece of equipment in the ideal location, but wherever possible Microsoft removes physical barriers. Microsoft business units are charged for their true operating costs, including energy consumption and cooling costs, and not by the space they occupy.