What Is a Secure Power Unit?
A new category of packaged hydrogen backup power, purpose-built for data centers and critical infrastructure.
1. Definition
A Secure Power Unit (SPU) is a containerized backup power system built around hydrogen fuel cells. It combines PEM fuel cells, hydrogen storage and power electronics in a standard container, starting at 1 MW and scaling to multi-megawatt configurations.
2. Why it matters
Data centers need long-duration, low-emission backup that is faster to deploy than conventional builds. A containerized SPU standardizes procurement, reduces on-site construction and enables zero-emission runtime.
3. The HRS launch
HRS (Hydrogen Refueling Solutions) unveiled its SPU in May 2026, integrating PEM fuel cells supplied by Ballard. The initial configuration is 1 MW, expandable to multi-MW, aimed at data centers and mission-critical infrastructure.
4. Timeline
HRS plans a demonstration at its Champagnier test site in France in 2027, followed by commercial rollout. Early adopters are expected in the data center segment.
Bottom Line
The SPU turns hydrogen fuel-cell backup into a plug-and-play product for data centers. If the concept proves out in 2027 demonstrations, it could accelerate the shift from diesel to zero-emission backup power.