Secure Power Unit
Containerized hydrogen fuel-cell power for data centers — 1 MW base, modular to multi-MW, built for always-on facilities.
What Is a Secure Power Unit?
A Secure Power Unit (SPU) is a packaged, containerized backup power system built around hydrogen fuel cells, designed for data centers and critical infrastructure. The concept was launched in 2026 by HRS (Hydrogen Refueling Solutions), a French hydrogen infrastructure company. An SPU bundles PEM fuel cells with hydrogen storage and power electronics into a standard container footprint, starting at 1 MW and scaling to multi-megawatt configurations.
How It Works
The SPU integrates PEM fuel cells (supplied by Ballard in HRS's design), on-site hydrogen storage and grid-forming power electronics in a single container. On outage, the unit starts in seconds and delivers clean backup power. HRS plans a demonstration at its Champagnier test site in France in 2027, targeting data centers and mission-critical facilities.
Key Specifications
| Parameter | Typical Value |
|---|---|
| Start-up time | Seconds |
| Base capacity | 1 MW, modular to multi-MW |
| Technology | PEM fuel cells (e.g., Ballard) |
| Runtime | Hydrogen-supply dependent |
| Emissions | Zero at point of use |
| Footprint | Containerized, standard logistics |
| Target segment | Data centers, critical infrastructure |
| Status | 2026 launch; 2027 demo (Champagnier, FR) |
Advantages
- Plug-and-play containerized deployment
- Scalable from 1 MW to multi-MW
- Zero-emission, low-noise operation
- Standardized for data center procurement
Disadvantages
- Early-stage technology with limited field data
- Hydrogen supply chain still required
- Higher cost than conventional gensets today
Best-Fit Applications
- New data center builds with net-zero mandates
- Urban or emission-restricted sites
- Operators standardizing on containerized power
Market Notes
HRS (Hydrogen Refueling Solutions) launched its Secure Power Unit in May 2026, using Ballard PEM fuel cells; demonstration planned for 2027 at Champagnier, France. Similar packaged fuel-cell power products come from Ballard, Plug Power, Bloom Energy and Mitsubishi.
FAQ
Who makes the Secure Power Unit?
HRS (Hydrogen Refueling Solutions) launched the SPU concept in 2026, integrating Ballard PEM fuel cells. It targets data centers and critical infrastructure.
How big is an SPU?
The base configuration is 1 MW, designed to scale to multi-megawatt installations by adding modules.
When will SPUs be commercially available?
HRS plans a demonstration at its Champagnier, France test site in 2027, with commercial rollout following.