Microsoft trials hydrogen-powered data centers

The software giant has begun testing hydrogen fuel cells as a back-up power source at one of its U.S. data centers. A 250 kW pilot system successfully powered part of the facility for 48 hours and the company is now eyeing 3 MW systems to replace back-up diesel generators.

Microsoft sees the fuel source having a much wider role than just providing data center back-up power.

Image: Power Innovation

Share

U.S. software giant Microsoft this week announced the successful trial of a hydrogen fuel cell system to power one of its data centers. The company said the 250 kW pilot project provided proof of concept and, beyond back-up power, Microsoft said it has a much bigger vision of playing a leading role in the growth of a ‘hydrogen economy.’

Working with Utah-based developer Power Innovations, Microsoft began testing the pilot system in September and achieved a milestone last month when the fuel cell unit powered a data center for 48 hours.

To read the full story, please visit our site pv magazine International

This content is protected by copyright and may not be reused. If you want to cooperate with us and would like to reuse some of our content, please contact: editors@pv-magazine.com.

Popular content

IndiGrid commissions India’s first regulated utility-scale standalone battery energy storage system in Delhi
05 April 2025 The 20 MW/40 MWh utility-scale standalone battery energy storage system is designed to seamlessly integrate renewable energy into the distribution-lev...