Fuel Cell Powered Data Centers: In-Rack DC Generation

Abstract

In this study, the National Fuel Cell Research Center is working with Microsoft to investigate a new data center concept that includes the detailed integration of fuel cell technology into server racks. The concept could eliminate the need for backup power and potentially introduce significant emissions reductions and energy savings while enhancing data center availability. The concept was experimentally verified using a hydrogen-fueled 10 kW proton exchange membrane fuel cell stack and system as the distributed direct current power source, eliminating the need for power conversion or distribution in the data center and the utility grid outside of the data center. The subsequent evaluation of a natural gas fueled 2.5 kW solid oxide fuel cells stack and system was tested and demonstrated to meet the dynamic DC power demands of servers. Both the steady state performance and the dynamic load following capability of the SOFC stack and system are evaluated and characterized.