Hydrogen engine passes practical test for data center emergency power

27.04.2026

Source: E & M powernews

Innio and the Net Zero Innovation Hub have tested a 3 MW emergency power system with 100 percent hydrogen for data centers for the first time

The CHP manufacturer Innio and the Net Zero Innovation Hub for Data Centers have completed a validation test for a hydrogen-based emergency power solution, Innio announced. The partners used a 3 MW class gas engine running entirely on hydrogen. The test took place at Innio's site in Jenbach in Tyrol. The aim was to test the suitability of the technology for critical infrastructures. Representatives from Microsoft, Google and Data 4 accompanied the test on site.

According to Innio, the test confirmed a scalable and clean backup solution. The hydrogen engine ran through several load scenarios during the demonstration. These included dynamic load changes and profiles characterized by AI applications. These requirements are considered characteristic of data centers with high power density.

According to Innio, it transferred the properties of its gas engine technology to operation with hydrogen. The manufacturer cites short start-up times, stable load behavior and continuous power output as key criteria. This validation test has now shown that the technology delivers the "transient performance, resilience and flexibility that data centers need - even when running on 100 percent hydrogen," said Olaf Berlien, President & CEO of the Innio Group.

Industry partners define requirements for scaling

The validation test is part of a selection and testing process of the Net Zero Innovation Hub. This hub is an association of companies from the data center industry, including Danfoss, Data 4, Google, Microsoft, Schneider Electric and Vertiv. The members jointly define technical requirements for new energy solutions. The basis for this was an international survey on low-CO2 backup systems.

The increasing power requirements of data centers, especially due to AI applications, are increasing the pressure on operators. In addition to security of supply, short project runtimes and CO2 reduction are becoming increasingly important. Industry forecasts assume that hybrid and off-grid energy systems will become significantly more important. Hydrogen-based solutions could play a role in the area of emergency power and primary supply.

The Innio Group and the Net Zero Innovation Hub for Data Centers plan to continue working together to scale up this solution. The focus will include fuel availability, infrastructure, storage solutions, approval processes, dual-fuel capabilities and integration into data center architectures.

Author: Heidi Roider