Equinix Trials Hydrogen Power at Dublin Data Centre

Equinix tests hydrogen backup power at Dublin data centre

Equinix has completed a 12-week trial of hydrogen-powered generators at its DB3 data centre in Blanchardstown, Dublin 15. The pilot project, delivered with ESB and GeoPura, tested whether hydrogen could replace diesel generators for backup power. This marks the first hydrogen deployment of its type across Equinix’s global portfolio of over 280 data centres.

Two hydrogen generators were installed in shipping-container-sized units at the site. Equinix reported the units supported cooling systems and helped reduce power usage effectiveness below 1.3. The system delivered up to half a megawatt of continuous power and integrated with uninterruptible power supply infrastructure for real-time response.

The trial comes at a time when data centre energy demand in Dublin remains under scrutiny. Grid capacity constraints and emissions targets have intensified focus on alternatives to fossil fuel backup systems. Hydrogen offers potential as a lower-carbon option for resilience, though questions around cost, safety, and scalability remain under evaluation.

What the Dublin trial involved

The project used PEM fuel cell technology to generate electricity from hydrogen. This differs from combustion-based generators, which burn diesel or gas to produce power. Fuel cells convert hydrogen and oxygen into electricity through an electrochemical process, with water vapour as the only emission at the point of use.

Equinix stated the trial aimed to gather operational data across several areas. These included carbon reduction performance, safety protocols, commercial viability, and the potential for peak-shaving on the electricity grid. Peak-shaving refers to reducing demand during periods of high grid load, which can help avoid network strain and lower costs.

The hydrogen units were deployed temporarily for the trial period. DataCenterDynamics reported that Equinix later clarified the installation was a demonstration rather than a permanent fixture. This suggests the company is still assessing whether hydrogen backup power justifies longer-term investment.

Equinix has been expanding its use of fuel cells globally. As of April 2025, the company reported 72 MW of fuel cells deployed worldwide, with a further 104 MW contracted. However, most of this capacity involves natural gas fuel cells rather than hydrogen-fed systems. The Dublin trial represents a step toward testing hydrogen specifically for critical backup applications.

Why backup power matters for data centres

Data centres require continuous power to maintain servers, cooling systems, and network infrastructure. Any interruption can cause service outages, data loss, or equipment damage. Consequently, operators rely on backup generators to bridge the gap during grid failures or maintenance.

Most backup systems today use diesel generators. These provide reliable, instant power but produce carbon emissions and air pollutants. Diesel also carries fuel storage risks and requires regular maintenance. As a result, regulators and clients are increasingly asking data centre operators to explore cleaner alternatives.

Hydrogen-powered generators offer a potential route to lower emissions. When hydrogen is produced using renewable electricity through electrolysis, the entire energy cycle can be low-carbon. However, hydrogen infrastructure remains underdeveloped in most regions. Storage, transport, and on-site handling all require new equipment and safety procedures.

The Dublin trial also tested whether hydrogen could support peak-shaving. This involves running generators during periods of high grid demand to reduce strain on the network. For data centres facing grid capacity limits, this could enable continued operation without requiring costly network upgrades. It could also help utilities manage load more effectively.

Implications for Dublin’s constrained grid

Dublin’s electricity network has been under pressure from data centre growth for several years. EirGrid, the transmission system operator, has imposed connection restrictions in parts of the city due to capacity constraints. These restrictions limit new data centre connections until network reinforcement is completed.

Data centres now account for a significant share of Ireland’s electricity demand. This has raised concerns among policymakers about grid resilience, emissions, and the impact on other energy users. Some public debate has focused on whether data centre expansion should be slowed or relocated to areas with spare capacity.

Hydrogen backup power could address some of these concerns. If generators can operate during peak periods without emissions, they offer both resilience and flexibility. This might make it easier for data centres to secure planning permission or grid connections in constrained areas. However, the technology must prove cost-effective and scalable before it can become a mainstream solution.

Equinix has indicated it is exploring hydrogen options for other Dublin sites and its wider operations. The trial provides data that could inform future procurement decisions. Nevertheless, hydrogen infrastructure in Ireland remains limited. Any widespread adoption would require parallel investment in production, distribution, and storage facilities.

Commercial and operational challenges

Hydrogen-powered generators face several practical hurdles. Cost is a major factor. Hydrogen production, storage, and fuel cell systems are all more expensive than diesel equivalents at present. Economies of scale could reduce costs over time, but early adopters bear higher capital and operating expenses.

Safety is another consideration. Hydrogen is highly flammable and requires careful handling. Storage tanks, pipelines, and generators must meet strict standards. Staff need training in hydrogen safety protocols. These requirements add complexity and cost compared to conventional diesel systems.

Fuel supply is a further challenge. Green hydrogen, produced using renewable electricity, remains scarce and expensive. Most hydrogen today is produced from natural gas, which generates carbon emissions unless combined with carbon capture. Data centre operators seeking genuine emissions reductions must ensure their hydrogen supply is genuinely low-carbon.

Finally, hydrogen generators must demonstrate reliability under real-world conditions. Backup power systems are tested infrequently but must perform flawlessly when needed. Fuel cells have proven durable in some applications, but their track record in data centre environments is still being established. Trials like the one at DB3 help build this evidence base.

Key facts from the Equinix trial

• Equinix, ESB, and GeoPura completed a 12-week hydrogen power trial at the DB3 data centre in Blanchardstown, Dublin 15.
• Two hydrogen-powered generators were installed in shipping-container-sized units, delivering up to half a megawatt of continuous power.
• The trial used PEM fuel cell technology and aimed to assess carbon reduction, safety, commercial viability, and peak-shaving potential.
• Equinix reported that the system supported cooling operations and helped achieve a power usage effectiveness below 1.3.
• The installation was a temporary demonstration rather than a permanent deployment, according to clarifications reported by DataCenterDynamics.
• Equinix has 72 MW of fuel cells deployed globally and 104 MW contracted as of April 2025, though most use natural gas rather than hydrogen.

What this means for UK businesses and supply chains

The Equinix trial offers insights relevant to businesses beyond the data centre sector. Hydrogen backup power could become an option for any organisation requiring high resilience and facing pressure to reduce emissions. This includes manufacturers, logistics hubs, hospitals, and financial services providers.

For businesses in public sector supply chains, the trial is particularly significant. Procurement Policy Note 06/21 requires suppliers bidding for major government contracts to publish carbon reduction plans. Demonstrating low-carbon backup power could strengthen tender responses, especially where resilience is a key requirement. Moreover, as more public bodies set net-zero targets, suppliers may face direct questions about energy resilience and emissions.

However, businesses should approach hydrogen with realistic expectations. The technology is still maturing. Costs remain high, and infrastructure is limited outside specific industrial clusters. For most SMEs, immediate priorities should focus on energy efficiency, renewable electricity procurement, and conventional carbon reduction measures. Hydrogen may become viable later as costs fall and supply chains develop.

Supply chain professionals should also monitor hydrogen developments. If major customers or partners adopt hydrogen backup power, this could influence procurement specifications. Understanding the technology, its benefits, and its limitations will help businesses respond to evolving requirements. Additionally, businesses in sectors such as construction, facilities management, or energy services may find commercial opportunities in supporting hydrogen deployment.

Compliance teams should note that hydrogen use does not automatically qualify as low-carbon. The carbon intensity of hydrogen depends on how it is produced. Green hydrogen from renewable electrolysis has minimal emissions. Grey hydrogen from natural gas without carbon capture has a carbon footprint similar to conventional fuels. Businesses must verify the source of any hydrogen they use to ensure it aligns with their carbon reduction commitments.

Where to find further information

For details on Ireland’s electricity grid and data centre connection policies, visit EirGrid’s website. The transmission system operator publishes network capacity statements and policy updates relevant to large energy users. Businesses considering data centre services or high-demand connections in Ireland should review EirGrid’s planning guidance.

The UK government’s hydrogen strategy and policy updates are available through the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero. This includes information on hydrogen production support, safety regulations, and infrastructure development plans. Businesses exploring hydrogen options should consult these resources to understand the policy environment.

For guidance on carbon reduction plans and public procurement requirements, see Procurement Policy Note 06/21 on gov.uk. This sets out the expectations for suppliers bidding for contracts over £5 million per year. Businesses affected by PPN 06/21 may also benefit from our net-zero program for carbon reporting compliance, which supports suppliers in meeting procurement requirements.

Technical standards for hydrogen systems and fuel cells are published by the British Standards Institution. These cover safety, performance, and installation requirements. Organisations planning hydrogen projects should engage with BSI standards to ensure compliance and best practice.