ENERGY & POWER
Replacing diesel generators with hydrogen alternatives The trial positions hydrogen fuel cells as a potential replacement for diesel and gas generators traditionally used in data centre backup systems. Powered by green hydrogen produced from renewable electricity, the units generate electricity through advanced PEM fuel cell technology, emitting only water and heat at the point of use.
This shift is significant for data centres, where backup generation remains one of the more challenging areas to decarbonise. Hydrogen systems offer a pathway to reduce operational emissions without compromising reliability, particularly for large energy users operating at scale.
“ The deployment of hydrogen fuel cells at Equinix data centres is another important step in demonstrating how zero direct onsite-emission technologies can support critical infrastructure,” says Paul Lennon, Head of Asset Development at ESB Generation Trading.
“ As data demand continues to grow, solutions like hydrogen power units offer a reliable, clean alternative to traditional backup generation.
“ At ESB, we see green hydrogen playing a key role in enabling resilient, low-carbon energy systems, and we’ re proud to partner with forward-thinking organisations like Equinix to bring these solutions into real-world operation.”
62 July 2026