NorthC Hydrogen Backup Power

The Groningen site of NorthC pioneered one of Europe’s first hydrogen-based emergency power solutions for a data center. Instead of traditional diesel gensets, the facility uses a PEM fuel-cell system fueled with green hydrogen to secure critical IT loads during grid outages. The result: zero local emissions, and a step-change in sustainability without compromising uptime.

The data center of the future will be backed up by clean power because it’s the most resilient, responsible, and forward-looking choice.

Designing an H₂ backup system for a mission-critical environment demanded close attention to safety, grid-forming behaviour, and seamless switchover. The installation is housed in an outdoor, containerized unit on the roof with dedicated ventilation and detection. When the grid drops, the fuel cell delivers immediate stable power.

‍

Zero Emission Backup Power

Nedstack hydrogen fuel cell systems deliver reliable backup power without on site CO₂, NOₓ or particulate emissions during test cycles or outages. Designed around 500 kW, the system provides continuous, right sized resilience with modular capacity to grow alongside demand.

With a quiet and compact footprint, it is ideal for urban campuses and critical facilities. The system is hybrid ready and integrates seamlessly with batteries and renewables to optimize performance and runtime.

‍

Seamless and Safe Integration

Safety is built in, with hydrogen detection, ventilation paths and automatic shut off valves fully integrated into building and energy management systems. Fast start capability, stable voltage and frequency control, and black start functionality ensure protection of critical infrastructure.

The modular design enables parallel installation and simple scalability as power requirements increase, while reduced maintenance and simplified testing lower operational impact compared to diesel systems.

‍

Sustainable Business Impact

By eliminating diesel test runs and outage emissions, the system delivers measurable CO₂ reduction and supports Net Zero strategies. It helps organizations comply with tightening air quality standards while offering predictable operating costs linked to green hydrogen supply.

The result is reliable, future proof backup power that strengthens both sustainability performance and ESG reporting.

‍