Systems availability provider Interactive released a statement Tuesday claiming to be the first data centre provider in the world powered by 100 percent renewable energy.

As of 1 November 2008 the IT infrastructure of the 1,100 customers across Australia using Interactive’s datacentre and IT support services will be purchasing services powered entirely by AGL’s Green Energy renewable sources; including wind, hydro, solar and biomass.

Interactive MD Christopher Ride said the company recognised that using 100 percent green power is the most effective step in reducing carbon footprint, especially when dealing with power-hungry data centres.

“Using more expensive power that is environmentally healthy is part of our future whether we like it or not. For a business like ours, it's better to take the step now and be ahead of that curve, rather than behind it. The IT market can be very cost sensitive, but we believe that we have the economies of scale, the power efficiencies, and the relationship with AGL to provide 100 percent Green power and not lose our market competitiveness," he said.

Interactive supported its claims in the statement with a quote from Gartner analyst Rakesh Kumar, who said Gartner had not found a data centre provider running their entire operation from 100 percent renewable energy sources. Energy Response national manager, Peter Nolan, also confirmed that his organisation backed Interactive's claim.

Interactive has enlisted Carbon Planet to oversee its green initiatives.