Equinix, a global datacenter and colocation provider, is making strides in exploring fuel cell technology as an alternative backup power source. The company has recently revealed that it has a demonstration unit at one of its facilities in Dublin, Ireland.
Fuel cells, powered by hydrogen, are being investigated by Equinix as a greener option compared to traditional energy sources. The company’s aim is to develop proof-of-concept projects for real-world testing within its network of facilities.
Peter Lantry, the managing director of Equinix Ireland, shared in a LinkedIn post that he had showcased the unit to visiting colleagues near one of the four International Business Exchange (IBX) datacenters operating in the Irish capital. The demonstration unit, supplied by ESB, the state-owned energy company, was produced by GeoPura, a UK-based renewable energy company, in collaboration with Siemens Energy.
ESB states that this hydrogen power unit, housed in a shipping container, can provide up to 250 kW of clean power when needed. The technology has already been utilized for large-scale events and has replaced diesel generators in various construction settings.
While Equinix is conducting trials of the fuel cell technology, the company plans to expand its use for a full datacenter solution in the future. The fuel cell units will serve as backup power sources, replacing traditional diesel generators.
Fuel cells generate electricity by converting the chemical energy of a fuel and an oxidizing agent. Typically, hydrogen and oxygen are used in this process. The challenge lies in sourcing the hydrogen from renewable sources to ensure carbon-free energy production.
Equinix’s exploration of fuel cell technology aligns with the global push for more sustainable energy solutions. As the company continues its trials and development, it aims to contribute to a greener future for datacenters and backup power systems.
Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ) – Fuel Cell Technology
1. What is Equinix exploring in relation to fuel cell technology?
Equinix, a global datacenter and colocation provider, is exploring the use of fuel cell technology as an alternative backup power source. The company is investigating the potential of fuel cells powered by hydrogen as a greener option compared to traditional energy sources.
2. Where does Equinix have a demonstration unit for fuel cell technology?
Equinix has a demonstration unit for fuel cell technology at one of its facilities in Dublin, Ireland. The unit was showcased to visiting colleagues near one of Equinix’s datacenters in the Irish capital.
3. Who supplied the demonstration unit for Equinix?
The demonstration unit was supplied by ESB, the state-owned energy company, in collaboration with GeoPura, a UK-based renewable energy company, and Siemens Energy.
4. What is the power capacity of the hydrogen power unit in the demonstration unit?
The hydrogen power unit, housed in a shipping container, can provide up to 250 kW of clean power when needed. It has already been utilized for large-scale events and has replaced diesel generators in various construction settings.
5. How does a fuel cell generate electricity?
Fuel cells generate electricity by converting the chemical energy of a fuel and an oxidizing agent. Typically, hydrogen and oxygen are used in this process.
6. What is the challenge in fuel cell technology?
The challenge lies in sourcing the hydrogen used in fuel cells from renewable sources in order to ensure carbon-free energy production.
7. What is Equinix’s goal in exploring fuel cell technology?
Equinix aims to develop proof-of-concept projects for real-world testing within its network of facilities. The company plans to expand the use of fuel cell technology as backup power sources for its datacenters, replacing traditional diesel generators.
8. How does Equinix’s exploration of fuel cell technology contribute to sustainability?
Equinix’s exploration of fuel cell technology aligns with the global push for more sustainable energy solutions. By utilizing fuel cells powered by hydrogen, Equinix aims to contribute to a greener future for datacenters and backup power systems.
Related Links:
– Equinix Official Website
– GeoPura Official Website
– Siemens Energy Official Website
– ESB Official Website
