Honda, Tokuyama, MC Launch Hydrogen Data Center Pilot
Reused Fuel Cells Powering Digital Future in Japan
Three leading Japanese companies are spearheading a groundbreaking initiative to power data centers with clean hydrogen, utilizing repurposed automotive fuel cells. This demonstration project aims to slash operational costs and champion decarbonization efforts in the digital infrastructure sector.
Innovative Energy Strategy Unveiled
Since June 2023, Honda, Tokuyama, and MC have collaborated on this ambitious project, which was selected by the New Energy and Industrial Technology Development Organization (NEDO) as part of its hydrogen society development program. The pilot is set to take place in Shunan City, Yamaguchi Prefecture.
Sustainable Hydrogen for Data Needs
The core of the demonstration involves a stationary fuel cell power station developed by Honda. This unit is designed to be built from fuel cells previously used in Honda’s fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs). These repurposed cells will harness by-product hydrogen from Tokuyama’s salt electrolysis operations to generate electricity.
Decarbonizing Data Centers
This generated electricity will then be supplied to a distributed data center managed by MC. The project seeks to validate the viability of repurposing automotive fuel cell systems for stationary power applications. Key goals include reducing the economic burden for stationary fuel cell power station operators and contributing to the decarbonization of electricity supplies.
Addressing Growing Data Demands
With the rise of technologies like generative AI and automated driving, the demand for data processing power is expected to surge. By leveraging stable, low-carbon by-product hydrogen and reused fuel cell systems, the companies aim to support the “green transformation” (GX) of data centers and facilitate the digital transformation (DX) for municipalities and local businesses.
The global data center market is projected to grow significantly, with some estimates suggesting a doubling of energy consumption by 2026 compared to 2021 levels (Source: International Energy Agency, 2024). This initiative highlights a proactive approach to meeting future energy demands sustainably.
