A method for reducing a need for power in a backup mode of operation in a data center includes receiving a first alert from an uninterruptible power supply indicating that the uninterruptible power supply is operating in a first mode, wherein the first mode includes deriving power from a stored energy source, identifying at least one host server configured to receive power from the uninterruptible power supply in the first mode, suspending execution of at least one virtual machine on the at least one host server, receiving a second alert from the uninterruptible power supply indicating that the uninterruptible power supply is operating in a second mode, wherein the second mode includes deriving power from one of a mains power source and a generator, and resuming execution of the at least one virtual machine.