Scalable Backup Power: INNIO And Net Zero Hub Test Hydrogen Solution At MW Scale

The INNIO Group, together with the Net Zero Innovation Hub for Data Centers, has successfully completed a groundbreaking validation test: for the first time in the industry, the partners demonstrated a 3 MW-class backup power system for data centers powered by a gas engine running on 100% hydrogen. The test was conducted as part of the Hub’s structured, collaborative approach, which aims to identify and validate innovative technologies to prepare them for deployment at industrial scale. Technical experts from Microsoft, Google, and Data4 attended the test on-site to evaluate the results against real-world data center requirements.

INNIO’s gas engines are known for their fast start-up times, outstanding load response, and stable performance. In this 3 MW-class demonstration, INNIO showed for the first time that these performance characteristics can be reliably achieved when operating on 100% hydrogen.

During the live test at INNIO’s research site, the hydrogen engine underwent demanding load profiles typical for critical data center applications. In addition to various AI-related load profiles, the validation included rapid and large-scale load changes to simulate real operating conditions in data centers. Based on their on-site observations, the attending technical experts from Microsoft, Google, and Data4 confirmed that hydrogen engines represent a promising option for both backup and primary power supply in next-generation, high-performance data centers.

The validation test is part of the Net Zero Innovation Hub for Data Centers’ structured, collaborative process for scaling innovation. Within this hub, leading data center companies jointly define requirements to enable the large-scale deployment of new technologies. Following a global Request for Information (RfI) on low-carbon backup solutions, hydrogen and other clean fuels were identified as suitable alternatives to replace diesel backup generators. INNIO’s Jenbacher gas engine technology was selected for megawatt-scale validation. INNIO prepared and executed the demonstration and successful live test in close collaboration with the Hub’s technical team. Hub partners include Data4, Google, Microsoft, Schneider Electric, and Vertiv.

Amid rapidly accelerating AI-driven load growth, data center operators are increasingly prioritizing energy security, fast deployment timelines, and decarbonization. Industry analysts expect the share of hybrid and so-called behind-the-meter energy systems in new data centers to grow from 10–20% in 2025 to 50–60% by 2030. This highlights the need for scalable, low-carbon alternatives to diesel-based backup systems.

“Data centers are the backbone of the digital economy, and their energy demand is growing rapidly. This validation test shows that INNIO’s technology delivers the transient performance, resilience, and flexibility that data centers require—even when operating on 100% hydrogen,” said Dr. Olaf Berlien, President & CEO of the INNIO Group.

“The successful test confirms a scalable and clean backup solution. At the same time, it underscores the innovative collaborative approach of our Hub to accelerate the adoption of new solutions in the data center industry,” added Alberto Ravagni, CEO of the Net Zero Innovation Hub for Data Centers.

Hydrogen-powered behind-the-meter backup and prime power solutions offer a promising pathway for low-carbon emergency and primary energy supply. They support faster deployment of data centers, improved grid integration, and enhanced grid stability. INNIO and the Net Zero Innovation Hub for Data Centers plan to continue working together to scale this solution. Key focus areas include fuel availability, infrastructure, storage solutions, permitting processes, dual-fuel capabilities, and integration into data center architectures.