ABB19 May 2022 10:44
AFC's 200kW Fuel Cells already being pushed by ABB into the Data Center market, they are not waiting for AFC, they are ploughing ahead to get clients lined up for when the 200kW system arrives. The 1MW and 3MW Data Center brochures also include the 200kW Fuel Cells and mention Ammonia fuel.
"Next-gen data centers need medium-voltage UPS's and fuel cells"
Danel Turk, ABB
2022-05-03
Danel Turk is global data center segment leader at ABB
How can fuel cells play a role?
Many of the largest data center providers actively pursue strategies to reduce or eliminate reliance on diesel generators. For example, Microsoft has committed to ending diesel use by the end of 2030 and is already trialling fuel cells as an alternative. In 2020, Google announced a commitment to use large batteries instead of diesel gensets at a new site in Belgium.
The appeal of fuel cells lies in their potential to provide local backup power and even inject power into the grid during peak demand periods. Fuel cell technology combines materials and chemical science with automation, and protection and control systems, therefore its application requires specialist knowledge from each field.
Fuel cells can be integrated into power systems, for instance deploying 200kW installations to power electric vehicle charging stations where grid power is unavailable. Furthermore, fuel cells provide emergency backup in microgrids and power for telecoms sites at other remote locations.
However, for data centers, further investigation needs to take place at the multi-megawatt level. This requires sophisticated development and testing of the interfaces between fuel cells, energy storage systems, electrical switchgear, and control infrastructure. We need an integrated approach
to data center requirements.
As a component of microgrids, fuel cells can be combined with other technologies to meet any off-grid or prosumer need. The latest offerings are available as modular 1 and 3 MW solutions, which are fast to deliver and deploy.
https://library.abb.com/d/9AKK108466A8552
1MW and 3MW Brochures:
"Fuel Cell module: Designed in 200 kW package, and can be expanded in a modular manner. For full power back up, up to five (5) modules connection must be planned. Fuel cell modules are energized by ammonia to optimize fuel storage on site and utilize higher power density."
https://library.abb.com/d/9AKK108466A5931
https://library.abb.com/d/9AKK108466A5930
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