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Transforming Telecom: How Hydrogen Fuel Cells Enhance Backup Power Reliability

December 12, 2024

Telecommunications are essential in our everyday lives, enabling communication for both personal and business needs. With the increasing reliance on continuous connectivity, having a reliable power supply is crucial to avoid interruptions in service. However, power outages caused by natural disasters, grid failures, or equipment issues are a common challenge for telecom companies. When the power goes out, so does the service, leading to disruptions that can be costly both in terms of money and reputation.

To address this issue, telecom providers use backup power systems. While batteries and diesel generators have been common solutions, hydrogen fuel cells have been a backup power solution for over 20 years and continue to become a more promising option. Fuel cells offer a reliable, environmentally friendly, and efficient way to keep telecom operations running during power failures.

Telecom site with fuel cell backup power

This blog will explore how hydrogen fuel cells are becoming a viable solution for backup power in telecom. We will look at their advantages over traditional systems, how they are being used in the real world, and the future of hydrogen fuel cells in the telecom industry. As the world moves towards greener energy solutions, hydrogen fuel cells could play a key role in providing reliable and sustainable backup power for telecom services.

Understanding Fuel Cells

A. What are Fuel Cells?

A fuel cell is a device that generates electricity through a chemical reaction between hydrogen and oxygen. Unlike traditional power sources, such as batteries or generators, fuel cells do not rely on combustion. Instead, they produce electricity efficiently by using an electrochemical process. This process takes place continuously as long as fuel, typically hydrogen, is supplied to the cell. Fuel cells are known for being highly reliable, efficient, and environmentally friendly, making them an ideal solution for applications like backup power.

B. How Fuel Cells Work

Fuel cells operate on an electrochemical process that generates electricity. Here is a simplified breakdown of how this process works:

Electrochemical Process: In a fuel cell, hydrogen gas is supplied to the anode (the negative side), where it is split into protons (hydrogen ions) and electrons. The electrons travel through an external circuit, creating an electric current that can be used to power devices or equipment.
Key Components:
- Anode: The anode is where hydrogen gas enters the fuel cell. It is the negative side of the cell. The hydrogen molecules are split into protons and electrons.
- Cathode: The cathode is the positive side of the fuel cell. It is where oxygen from the air enters. The protons travel through the electrolyte to the cathode, while the electrons flow through the external circuit.
- Electrolyte: The electrolyte is the medium that allows the protons to pass from the anode to the cathode. It prevents the electrons from traveling directly from the anode to the cathode. The electrolyte plays a key role in ensuring that the electrochemical reaction takes place efficiently.

This process produces electricity, water, and heat as by-products. The water is a clean, non-polluting emission, which makes fuel cells environmentally friendly.

C. Types of Fuel Cells

Fuel cells come in different types, each designed for specific applications based on factors such as efficiency, size, and fuel source. Here are some common types of fuel cells:

Alkaline Fuel Cells (AFC): These use a solution of potassium hydroxide as electrolyte. While they are highly efficient, their use is often limited to specialized applications due to sensitivity to CO2.
Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cells (PAFC): These use phosphoric acid as electrolyte. They are commonly used for stationary power generation and are known for their reliability.
Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs): PEMFCs are the most widely used type of fuel cells, especially in telecom applications. They use a solid polymer membrane as the electrolyte and operate at relatively low temperatures. This makes them quick to start and ideal for portable and backup power solutions. PEMFCs are highly efficient and can be scaled for different power needs. Their ability to work efficiently with hydrogen makes them a key technology for clean energy applications, including telecom backup power.
Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC): These fuel cells use a ceramic electrolyte and operate at much higher temperatures. They are mainly used in stationary applications and are known for their high efficiency but are not as widely used in telecom due to their size and temperature requirements.

Among these, Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs) are the focus for telecom backup power, as they offer a balance of efficiency, reliability, and environmental benefits, especially in mobile and stationary telecom infrastructure.

The Need for Backup Power in Telecom

A. Importance of Continuous Service in Telecom

Telecom networks are critical to modern society, supporting everything from personal communication to business transactions, and even emergency services. These networks handle massive amounts of data and communication every day, making uninterrupted service essential. Any disruption in telecom services can lead to significant financial losses, damage to customer trust, and operational downtime.

For telecom providers, ensuring that their systems remain online and functioning, even during power outages or other disruptions, is a high priority. That’s where backup power systems play a crucial role in maintaining service continuity.

B. Common Causes of Power Outages

Telecom networks are vulnerable to power disruptions for a variety of reasons. Some of the most common causes of power outages include:

Natural Disasters: Events such as hurricanes, earthquakes, and floods can damage power infrastructure, leading to widespread power loss. Telecom towers and equipment are often affected by these events, making reliable backup solutions critical in disaster-prone areas.
Grid Failures: The electrical grid is a complex system, and failures due to equipment malfunction, overloading, or accidents can lead to widespread outages. Telecom providers often rely on the same grid for power, making them susceptible to interruptions.
Equipment Malfunctions: Even without external disruptions, telecom equipment can fail due to aging components, power surges, or other technical issues. In such cases, backup power systems are necessary to maintain service until repairs are made.
Energy Shortages: In some regions, power shortages or load shedding may occur, requiring backup systems to keep telecom services running smoothly. In some cases, grid power is even shut off during severe weather for public safety reasons.

C. Current Backup Solutions

To ensure continuous operation during power failures, telecom providers primarily rely on traditional backup solutions such as batteries and generators. While these systems have been in use for years, they each have limitations that make them less ideal in the long term.

Batteries are a commonly used solution for short term telecom backup power at small sites, but they come with some notable limitations:

Limited Runtime and Lifespan: Batteries can only provide backup power for a limited amount of time, depending on the load and the size of the battery. Over time, their capacity decreases, meaning they need to be replaced or recharged frequently. Additionally, adding battery capacity due to additional telecom equipment or runtime needed at an expanding site can mean doubling the number of batteries and their footprint at the location, which increases capital expense and may increase site lease rates.
Environmental Concerns with Disposal: Batteries, especially lead-acid ones, pose environmental risks due to the toxic materials they contain. Improper disposal can lead to soil and water contamination, contributing to environmental pollution.

Generators, typically powered by diesel or natural gas, are another traditional backup solution. While they can provide longer-duration backup power, they have several downsides:

Noise Pollution and Fuel Dependency: Diesel generators are noisy, which can be a significant drawback in urban or densely populated areas. They also rely on diesel fuel, which can create supply challenges during emergencies.
Maintenance Requirements: Generators require regular maintenance to ensure they remain functional. This can be time-consuming and costly, particularly if they are used infrequently.

Role of Fuel Cells: Hydrogen fuel cells have supported telecom backup power since the early 2000s, offering reliability, eco-friendliness, and scalability. They ensure uninterrupted power, produce zero harmful emissions, operate quietly, and deliver high efficiency compared to traditional systems like batteries and generators. Additionally, fuel cells are flexible and scalable, catering to diverse telecom infrastructures while promoting sustainability.

Let’s dive deeper into the advantages of fuel cells and how they benefit the telecom sector.

Advantages of Hydrogen Fuel Cells for Telecom Backup

Hydrogen fuel cells offer several key advantages that make them an ideal choice for backup power in telecom. These benefits go beyond just providing electricity during power outages, they also contribute to the overall efficiency and sustainability of telecom operations.

A. Reliability and Performance

One of the main reasons hydrogen fuel cells are gaining popularity in telecom applications is their reliability. Unlike traditional backup solutions like batteries and generators, fuel cells provide a consistent and uninterrupted power supply with a longer productive lifespan than batteries. Batteries lose capacity as they age, and generators can face mechanical issues or rely on widely used fuels like diesel, which may experience shortages during emergencies.

Hydrogen fuel cells, on the other hand, are less likely to encounter such supply challenges due to hydrogen’s relatively niche usage. They can operate for extended periods without requiring recharging or frequent refueling (depending on the amount of stored fuel on-site), making them a dependable choice for telecom systems that must remain operational around the clock.

B. Environmental Benefits

Zero Emissions During Operation: Unlike diesel generators, which emit carbon dioxide and other pollutants, hydrogen fuel cells produce no air pollutants during operation. This makes them an attractive solution for industries that are looking to reduce their environmental impact.
Reduced Carbon Footprint: As more companies and industries adopt hydrogen fuel cells, their overall carbon footprint can be greatly reduced. Fuel cells contribute to the global effort to combat climate change by lowering the emission of greenhouse gases from the energy sector. In telecom, this is particularly relevant, as telecom providers look for ways to make their operations more sustainable and align with global environmental goals.

C. Long Operational Life and Low Maintenance

Hydrogen fuel cells have a long operational life and require relatively low maintenance compared to traditional backup power systems.

Long Operational Life: Fuel cells are designed to operate efficiently for many years without significant degradation. While batteries need frequent replacements, and generators require regular servicing and maintenance, fuel cells have a longer lifespan, reducing the total cost of ownership over time. This makes them a more cost-effective solution for telecom companies in many cases, especially in the long run.
Low Maintenance: Fuel cells are less prone to mechanical failures and do not require as much routine maintenance as diesel generators. Unlike generators, which need regular servicing, oil changes, and fuel checks, fuel cells have fewer moving parts and operate with minimal intervention. This makes them an ideal choice for remote telecom sites where access to maintenance personnel may be limited.

D. Scalability and Flexibility for Telecom Infrastructure

Another significant advantage of hydrogen fuel cells is their scalability and flexibility, making them suitable for various telecom infrastructure needs.

Scalability: Fuel cells can be easily scaled to meet the power demands of different telecom operations. Whether it’s a small base station or a large data center, fuel cells can be sized appropriately to provide the necessary backup power. This scalability ensures that fuel cells can be used in a wide range of telecom applications, from small cell sites to large network hubs.
Flexibility: Fuel cells are adaptable and can be integrated into existing telecom infrastructure without requiring major changes. They connect to the DC bus alongside a smaller battery string and can be used as the primary backup solution or complement existing systems like batteries and generators. Fuel cells can also be paired with renewable energy sources, such as solar or wind, to create a hybrid power solution that is both reliable and sustainable.

Fuel cells are a versatile and long-term solution for telecom companies looking to ensure reliable and environmentally friendly backup power. Their scalability allows for customization, while their low maintenance and long life contribute to operational efficiency and reduced costs.

Case Studies and Real-World Applications

A. Examples of Telecom Companies Using Hydrogen Fuel Cells

Hydrogen fuel cells have been increasingly adopted by telecom companies seeking reliable and environmentally friendly backup power solutions. A notable example is Southern Linc, a wireless communications provider and subsidiary of Southern Company. Since 2015, Southern Linc has partnered with Plug to deploy hydrogen fuel cells across its network. They installed approximately 500 Plug fuel cell systems, providing backup power to their LTE sites. This initiative has significantly enhanced the reliability and sustainability of their operations.

Southern Linc telecom site with fuel cell backup power

Another example is Telstra, Australia’s largest telecommunications company. In 2024, Telstra partnered with Energys Australia to pilot the use of 10 kW renewable hydrogen generators at remote telecom towers. These generators provide backup power during outages, ensuring continuous service in areas vulnerable to extreme weather events. The pilot project, funded through the AUD 6.6 million Renewable Hydrogen Commercialisation Pathways Fund, aims to assess the feasibility and benefits of integrating hydrogen fuel cells into Telstra’s network infrastructure.

These metrics demonstrate that hydrogen fuel cells not only improve the reliability and efficiency of telecom networks but also contribute to cost savings and environmental sustainability.

B. Performance Metrics and Outcomes

Hydrogen fuel cells have shown promising results in real-world telecom applications:

Efficiency: Fuel cells offer higher energy efficiency compared to traditional generators, minimizing energy losses.
Cost-Effectiveness: A Southern Linc case study indicated expected annual savings of 64% in backup power operational expenses by using fuel cells.
Environmental Impact: Both Southern Linc and Telstra benefit from reduced emissions. Southern Linc’s network alone cuts down on 100 tons of greenhouse gas emissions annually.

Challenges and Solutions

A. Hydrogen Production and Supply Chain

Challenge: While hydrogen is generally accessible and less likely to face shortages during emergencies, delivering it to remote or hard-to-reach telecom sites, such as mountaintops or rural areas, can pose logistical and cost challenges. This issue is not due to a lack of hydrogen, but rather the complexities of transportation and storage infrastructure in such locations.

Solution: A promising solution lies in investing in renewable hydrogen production methods, such as electrolysis powered by solar or wind energy. By producing hydrogen locally near telecom sites, especially in remote areas, the transportation challenge can be minimized. Local production reduces reliance on distant supply chains and makes the fuel more cost-effective for telecom providers operating in challenging environments. Additionally, for remote areas where hydrogen is the best option, provisioning enough hydrogen at the site to provide power through times of more difficult access, like mountain winters, offers a solution.

B. Initial Investment Costs

Challenge: The higher upfront costs of hydrogen fuel cell systems compared to traditional backup solutions like batteries and generators can be a barrier for telecom companies.

Solution: While the initial investment may be more significant, the long-term savings are considerable. Hydrogen fuel cells have lower operational and maintenance costs, as they require less frequent servicing compared to generators. Additionally, government incentives for clean energy technologies can offset a significant amount of the initial expenses, making the switch to hydrogen more financially feasible for telecom companies. As the technology matures, costs are expected to decrease, further improving the business case for fuel cells in telecom.

C. Public Perception

Challenge: There are still misconceptions about hydrogen safety, which can create hesitation among telecom providers, regulators, and the public. Some may view hydrogen as dangerous due to its flammability.

Solution: The key to overcoming this challenge is increased education and outreach. By demonstrating the extensive safety protocols in place and the rigorous testing that hydrogen fuel cells undergo, telecom providers can build confidence in the technology. Additionally, sharing real-world examples, such as the successful adoption of hydrogen fuel cells by Southern Linc, Telstra, and many others, can help shift public perception and highlight the safety and reliability of this clean energy solution.

Future of Fuel Cells in Telecom

The integration of hydrogen fuel cells into telecommunications is poised for significant growth, driven by technological advancements and a global shift towards sustainable energy solutions.

A. Emerging Trends and Innovations in Fuel Cell Technology

Recent developments in fuel cell technology are enhancing their efficiency and applicability in telecom:

Durable Membrane Electrode Assemblies (MEAs): Innovations are focusing on creating MEAs that can withstand higher temperatures and chemical degradation, thereby further extending the lifespan and performance of fuel cells.
Non-Platinum Catalysts: To address the high cost and scarcity of platinum used as a catalyst, research is underway to develop non-platinum catalysts and nano-engineering techniques that reduce platinum usage without compromising performance.
Stack Integration: Advancements aim to improve the integration of fuel cell stacks, further enhancing overall system efficiency and reducing costs.

B. Potential for Integration with Renewable Energy Sources

Fuel cells are already being used in conjunction with renewable energy, but there is much room for expansion. Combining fuel cells with renewable energy sources offers a promising pathway for sustainable telecom operations:

Hybrid Systems: Integrating fuel cells with solar or wind energy can create hybrid systems that provide continuous power, even when renewable sources are intermittent.
Microgrids: Fuel cells can be a key component in microgrids, offering reliable backup power and reducing dependence on the main grid. Even now, Energy Vault is completing a backup power system in Calistoga, California for use with a neighborhood where power is likely to be shut off in times of increased wildfire danger. In this system, fuel cells will provide 8MW of power. Additionally, Stone Edge Farms, also in California, has operated its own microgrid since 2012.
Energy Storage: Hydrogen can store excess energy generated from renewable sources, then using it with the fuel cells to ensure a steady power supply during periods of power instability.

Energy Vault fuel cell backup power — Source: Energy Vault

C. Predictions for Market Growth and Adoption in the Telecom Sector

The adoption of fuel cells in the telecom sector is expected to accelerate:

Market Expansion: The global fuel cell market is projected to grow at a compound annual growth rate (CAGR) of 27.1% from 2024 to 2030, driven by increasing demand for unconventional energy sources and reduced environmental impact.
Telecom Adoption: Telecom companies are increasingly investing in fuel cell technology to enhance network reliability and sustainability. For instance, Southern Linc has deployed approximately 500 Plug fuel cell systems to provide backup power to their LTE sites. Globally, more than 7,600 hydrogen fuel cells have been deployed in backup power scenarios.
Government Support: Governments worldwide are offering incentives and funding to promote the adoption of clean energy technologies, including fuel cells, further accelerating their integration into the telecom sector.

In conclusion, the future of fuel cells in telecommunications is promising, with ongoing technological advancements, integration with renewable energy sources, and strong market growth paving the way for a more sustainable and reliable telecom infrastructure.