Equinix Begins Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trial to Replace Diesel Generators at Dublin Data Center
June 19, 2026
Equinix Begins Hydrogen Fuel Cell Trial to Replace Diesel Generators at Dublin Data Center
Equinix has launched its first pilot project using hydrogen fuel cell technology as a substitute for traditional diesel backup generators at a data center in Ireland, marking a significant step in the industry’s push toward decarbonizing critical infrastructure. The 12-week demonstration, conducted at the company’s DB3 facility in Blanchardstown, Dublin, aims to test the viability of hydrogen as a clean, reliable power source for data center operations.
In partnership with energy firms ESB and GeoPura, Equinix deployed two hydrogen-powered generators housed in shipping-container-sized units, supplied by GeoPura. These generators are currently supporting the facility’s cooling systems, and Equinix reported that the trial has already helped lower its power usage effectiveness (PUE) below 1.3. The units operate in parallel to evaluate their performance as a direct replacement for diesel or natural gas generators, using green hydrogen produced from renewable sources and employing Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell technology.
Each Hydrogen Power Unit delivers a continuous power output ranging from 250kW to 500kW and is equipped with integrated battery storage of 216kWh, providing uninterruptible power supply capabilities, handling peak demand, and enabling silent overnight operation. Equinix claims the system can be scaled up to 50MW, making it suitable for both backup and primary power applications. “As demand for digital infrastructure continues to grow, operators are facing increasing pressure to secure reliable power, reduce emissions, and minimize the impact on local communities. This trial shows how hydrogen can help address those challenges today,” said Andrew Cunningham, CEO of GeoPura. “By combining hydrogen fuel cell technology with battery systems and uninterruptible power capabilities, we’re delivering reliable zero direct onsite-emission power that can respond instantly when required.”
The project is designed to generate data on carbon reduction potential, operational safety, commercial feasibility, and grid peak-shaving capabilities. Equinix intends to share these insights with policymakers and universities to help determine the best deployment strategies for hydrogen in Ireland. Peter Lantry, managing director of Equinix Ireland, said: “This is a landmark research project that could be part of the solution to Ireland’s grid constraints and the challenge of accessing clean energy. Ireland is already making serious moves on hydrogen and how it can be stored at scale here. What we're doing with ESB is a different piece of the same puzzle: proving that hydrogen can work as a practical, zero direct onsite emissions alternative to diesel and gas in a live environment. If this pilot delivers what we expect, it adds real momentum to Ireland’s decarbonization story.”
The trial follows a broader trend in the data center industry. In 2024, Microsoft, in collaboration with Caterpillar, successfully completed a 48-hour demonstration using hydrogen fuel cells for backup power at a data center in Wyoming. The Equinix project is expected to provide further evidence that hydrogen can play a pivotal role in reducing the sector’s reliance on fossil fuels, particularly in regions facing grid constraints and ambitious clean energy targets like Ireland.
Source: datacenterdynamics
