Most data centres use diesel generators for backup
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
31 March 2025
Saudi Aramco’s blue hydrogen progress is a clear reminder that energy companies pivoting in search of greater returns may not be throwing the H₂ baby out with the bathwater
27 March 2025
Awards celebrate global innovation, leadership and achievement across the energy sector’s people, projects, technologies and companies.
27 March 2025
Region has all the ingredients to become a green hydrogen powerhouse but faces plenty of barriers and stiff competition
21 March 2025
European Hydrogen Bank auction is four times oversubscribed, while industry remains on pause in US amid IRA subsidy uncertainty
