Vertiv, Ballard partner on hydrogen fuel cells for data centres

Vertiv and Ballard Power Systems have announced a strategic technology partnership to support backup power applications for data centres and critical infrastructures.

The collaboration is focused on delivering scalable solutions capable of expanding from 200kW to multiple MWs.

Vertiv has integrated Ballard's fuel cell power modules with its Liebert EXL S1 uninterruptible power system (UPS) at Vertiv's facility in Ohio as part of a proof of concept. This demonstration aims to highlight the technical feasibility and customer benefits of hydrogen-powered fuel cell solutions.

"As the soaring increase in data usage is driving up power demand and expansion of data centre capacity globally, the need to effectively manage electricity consumption and the carbon footprint of this energy-intensive sector is critical to achieve net-zero targets," said Nicolas Pocard, vice president of marketing and strategic partnerships at Ballard. "Ballard and Vertiv's strategic partnership enables both parties to leverage our respective strengths to offer cost-effective, zero Green House Gas (GHG) emission fuel cell back-up power solutions that are scalable to meet data centres growing power demands."

The demonstration includes Vertiv's Power Module H2 solution, integrating two Ballard PowerGen 200kW fuel cell cabinets. This system encompasses a complete cooling subsystem, power conditioning equipment, and hydrogen storage infrastructure. Additionally, it is integrated with Vertiv's HPL Lithium-Ion batteries, Liebert EXL S1 UPS system, and the Vertiv DynaFlex Energy Management Controller. The Power Module H2 is a part of the 1 MW Vertiv Customer Experience Center microgrid solution, including a 1MW AC Solar PV array and the Vertiv DynaFlex Battery Energy Storage System (BESS).

Initial validations and tests conducted at the facility have demonstrated the successful operation of zero GHG emission backup power integrated into an uninterruptible power architecture.

"The unprecedented adoption of artificial intelligence (AI) and high-performance computing (HPC) are driving a need for eco-friendly power solutions for our customers, with a focus on zero-carbon and low-carbon energy alternatives," said Viktor Petik, vice president of Vertiv infrastructure solutions. "The successful fuel cell proof-of-concept with Ballard provides a viable option for customers strengthening their data centre sustainability strategy and those moving to a future-ready Bring Your Own Power (BYOP) model."

Vertiv's Power Module H2 offers various benefits for critical infrastructure applications, including zero GHG emission and low noise backup power generation, a rapid dynamic power response, and low maintenance compared to traditional diesel generator backup solutions. The solution also allows for extended backup durations, limited only by fuel storage capacity, and is optimised for MW scale applications, making it suitable for both new data centres and retrofitting existing sites without requiring electrical infrastructure redesign.

The geographic focus for this solution includes North America, Europe, and selected opportunities in other regions. The Power Module H2 broadens Vertiv's power portfolio and contributes to the company's "One Vertiv, One World" plan, aimed at enabling a more sustainable future.

Vertiv and Ballard will demonstrate and discuss fuel cell powered standby power applications for data centres and critical infrastructures at Smarter E Europe 2024, an event comprising several energy industry exhibitions. The demonstration will be held at exhibition area B2, Booth B2 436, from 19-21 June.