---
title: Vertiv and Ballard partner on zero-emission data center back-up power solutions
description: Vertiv and Ballard have entered into a strategic technology partnership focused on back-up power applications for data centers and critical infrastructure
---

[Ballard Powergen Blog ](https://blog.ballard.com/powergen)

# [Vertiv and Ballard partner on zero-emission data center back-up power solutions](https://blog.ballard.com/powergen/vertiv-ballard-announce-strategic-technology-partnership)

 Written by [Ballard Power Systems](https://blog.ballard.com/powergen/author/ballard-power-systems) | Jun. 18, 2024

Vertiv, a global provider of critical digital infrastructure and continuity solutions, and proton-exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell market leader, Ballard Power Systems, have entered into a strategic technology partnership with a focus on back-up power applications for data centers and critical infrastructure, scalable from 200kW to multiple megawatts.

The 400kW fuel cell system integrated into Vertiv’s Power Module H2 solution is part of the [1MW Vertiv Customer Experience Center microgrid](https://www.vertiv.com/en-us/about/news-and-insights/news-releases/vertiv-unveils-customer-experience-center-and-data-center-microgrid-installation-at-delaware-ohio-facility/) including a 1MW AC Solar photovoltaic (PV) array and [Vertiv™ DynaFlex](https://www.vertiv.com/en-us/products-catalog/critical-power/battery-energy-storage-system-bess/vertiv-dynaflex-battery-energy-storage-system/) Battery Energy Storage System (BESS).

   
Based on industry-ready components, Vertiv's Power Module H2 - demonstrated at their Delaware, Ohio facility - integrates two Ballard PowerGen® 200kW fuel cell cabinets, which power the fully functional decarbonized back-up system. The solution encompasses a complete cooling sub-system, power conditioning equipment and hydrogen storage infrastructure integrated with Vertiv™ HPL Lithium-Ion batteries, Liebert® EXL S1 UPS system, and the Vertiv™ DynaFlex Energy Management Controller. 

   
During the past six months, Vertiv conducted an array of quality and reliability tests to validate the proof-of-concept performances and held multiple customer demonstrations. Validation consists of:

 

- Mains failure fuel cell automatic start-up and load support
- Block loading while on fuel cell
- Fuel cell recharging the Lithium-Ion battery without mains power
- Mains return uninterrupted power supply (UPS) restart, power walk-in, and fuel cell return to standby

Today, most data centers rely on emissions-heavy diesel generators to provide extended back-up power. In contrast, a fuel cell generator consuming low-carbon hydrogen generates zero-emission electrical power, which presents an essential development for a sector facing increasing pressure and scrutiny from public authorities and communities to reduce or eliminate carbon emissions.

 

PEM fuel cells provide a reliable alternative to stand-by diesel generators with low maintenance, rapid ramp-up to full power, limited footprint, high cyclability and competitive total cost of ownership when compared to other zero-emission solutions.

 

   
The hydrogen fuel cell power generator can operate as a stand-by or primary generator. A UPS system powered by fuel cells and a grid-interactive controller can connect and disconnect from the grid as needed. When used as a back-up microgrid, it can reduce vulnerability caused by utility outages by using several connected distributed energy storage resources.

 

[View full post](https://blog.ballard.com/powergen/vertiv-ballard-announce-strategic-technology-partnership)

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