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
12 February 2025
Tax incentives attract multiple proposals for hydrogen hubs as government launches new initiative to speed up transition
11 February 2025
Multiple production routes and regional policy differences hamper nascent sector’s ability to attract investment
10 February 2025
Plans include a £2.7b export pipeline, but country faces stiff competition from other European suppliers
7 February 2025
Norwegian energy company slashes spending on low-carbon sectors as transition decelerates