Microsoft trials new data centre fuel-cell technology
Three-year pilot project will use proton-exchange-membrane (PEM) fuel cells, which are able to start and stop operating quickly
A three-year pilot project is underway to test hydrogen fuel cells as a backup power source in a large data centre owned by technology firm Microsoft. The project is being run by Microsoft in conjunction with fuel cell manufacturer Ballard Power Systems and equipment firm Caterpillar, and is Ballard’s first for a data centre. Caterpillar will supply expertise in advanced power technologies, controls and system integration, while Ballard will provide the fuel cells. The project will use proton-exchange-membrane (PEM) fuel cells, which are able to start and stop operating quickly. Fuel cell manufacturer Bloom Energy’s solid-oxide fuel cells (SOFCs)—which operate at a higher temperature—curre

Also in this section
6 August 2025
The US state of Kansas is emerging as a hotspot for a growing number of gold hydrogen prospectors
6 August 2025
EU industry and politicians are pushing back against the bloc’s green agenda. Meanwhile, Brussels’ transatlantic trade deal with Washington could consolidate US energy dominance
25 July 2025
Oil major cites strategy reset as it walks away from Australian Renewable Energy Hub, leaving partner InterContinental Energy to lead one of world’s largest green hydrogen projects
23 July 2025
Electrolysis seen as most leakage-prone production pathway as study warns of sharp increase through 2030 and beyond