Microsoft has just embarked on an ambitious pilot project in Dublin, aiming to use green hydrogen to power one of its data centres.
The technology giant will replace traditional diesel-powered backup generators with eco-friendly hydrogen fuel cells. These hydrogen fuel cells produce electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen, emitting only water vapor as a by-product. This switch is a crucial step in making data centres more environmentally friendly and sustainable.
Traditional data centres consume enormous amounts of energy and typically rely on diesel generators for backup power, which are known for their carbon emissions. By leveraging green hydrogen, Microsoft hopes to create a cleaner, more sustainable infrastructure. Cutting emissions from diesel generators is crucial for combating climate change, as data centres are a significant source of greenhouse gases.
Moreover, this project aligns with Microsoft’s broader sustainability goals. The company has pledged to become carbon negative by 2030, meaning it will remove more carbon from the atmosphere than it emits. It also aims to eliminate its dependency on diesel fuel by 2030.
Research and development for this pilot project are taking place in collaboration with several partners, including Irish researchers and energy companies. These collaborations are vital for the project’s success, providing the necessary expertise and resources to make this innovative venture a reality.
