Decarbonising the Telecom Industry with Hydrogen Fuel Cells
Power Generation
5 minute read
As we all rely on staying connected, whether for work, social life, or emergency services, Europe’s telecommunications industry faces a big challenge: how to keep networks running smoothly while cutting down on carbon emissions. From busy cities to remote mountain areas, telecom operators are working to provide reliable service in all locations, but they’re also feeling the growing need to reduce their environmental impact.
Europe’s telecom industry, led by major players like Telia, Vodafone, and Telefonica, has been at the heart of connectivity for decades. But as digital demands rise and environmental regulations tighten, telecom networks are now facing new pressures. Beyond maintaining reliable service, operators are also responsible for increasing backup power capacity in case of grid failures, all while reducing their reliance on fossil fuels like diesel.
Currently, most telecom infrastructure runs on grid power, with diesel generators as backup when outages occur. While diesel systems are reliable, they bring environmental drawbacks: high CO₂ emissions, noise pollution, and costly maintenance. And as regulatory bodies such as Sweden’s Post and Telecom Authority (PTS) push for longer backup times, diesel and traditional batteries may not be enough to meet these needs without adding to carbon emissions.
Our hydrogen fuel cell technology offers a solution. By providing zero-emissions power that telecoms can rely on, we’re can help them reduce their carbon footprint while ensuring strong, uninterrupted service. It’s a win for connectivity and for the planet.
The shift to a decarbonised, resilient telecom infrastructure is not only a challenge, it is also a powerful opportunity. At PowerCell Group, we’re leading the way with industry-ready hydrogen fuel cell solutions, equipping telecom operators with sustainable technology to meet the demands of next-generation networks. A field test conducted with a telecom partner indicates that hydrogen fuel cells, paired with solar panels, can provide up to 110 days of backup power.
As the telecom industry looks ahead, by adopting hydrogen fuel cells, telecom operators can ensure robust, reliable networks that meet future digital demands while supporting a cleaner, more sustainable planet. With our technology, telecom networks can answer the call for a greener, resilient future.
We are redefining the future of green power with our innovative hydrogen fuel cell technology. To meet ambitious net-zero targets, telecom operators must look beyond fossil-fuel-based solutions like diesel. By switching to hydrogen fuel cells, they can build resilient networks that comply with environmental standards and contribute to a cleaner, more sustainable future.
Unlike traditional energy sources, hydrogen fuel cells generate electricity through a clean, efficient chemical reaction, releasing only water and heat as byproducts. This makes hydrogen fuel cells an ideal power solution for telecom companies seeking both reliable performance and sustainability, enabling providers to meet their decarbonisation goals without compromises.
Our hydrogen fuel cells are designed for scalability and flexibility, making them ideal for various telecom applications. From powering high-demand urban centres to ensuring stable power in remote off-grid locations, our systems extends backup times far beyond the capabilities of traditional batteries supporting telecom systems for days.
Additionally, our hydrogen fuel cell technology integrates seamlessly with renewable sources like solar panels, enabling telecom operators to create self-sustaining energy ecosystems. In challenging, off-grid locations, such as mountain ranges or deserts, this combination of hydrogen and solar eliminates the logistical difficulties of diesel refuelling, offering a sustainable, game-changing solution.
“With hydrogen fuel cells, we’re enabling telecom operators to build networks that are both environmentally friendly and equipped for the next generation of connectivity.”
Simone Lenti
Business Manager Power Generation, PowerCell Group
With decades of experience and industry-leading technology, we offer telecom operators a trusted partner in their journey toward decarbonisation. Our systems are extensively validated, delivering the reliability and efficiency needed to not just match but surpass fossil-based alternatives. Unlike diesel generators, which require frequent maintenance and are vulnerable to theft, hydrogen fuel cells are low-maintenance and more secure, providing a long-term, cost-effective solution.
Here are five key areas where hydrogen fuel cell solutions have advantages over traditional backup power generators:
1. Zero Emissions
Unlike diesel generators, hydrogen fuel cells produce no harmful emissions, aligning with global sustainability goals and helping telecom operators reduce their carbon footprint.
2. Extended Backup Times
Our fuel cells provide reliable power for days—far exceeding the 4-hour requirement set by current regulations and preparing operators for future mandates that will require multi-day backup capabilities.
3. Scalability & Flexibility
Our fuel cells are adaptable, capable of meeting the unique demands of both urban and remote telecom infrastructure. Whether powering a small rural tower or a large urban data hub, our systems scale to meet the need.
4. Reduced Maintenance
Fuel cells have fewer moving parts than diesel generators and are far less prone to theft than batteries, reducing downtime and operational costs over time.
5. Regulatory Compliance
With regulations are expected to become even stricter regarding backup power and emissions, adopting hydrogen fuel cells ensures telecom operators remain compliant while staying ahead of the curve.
Do you want to know more how we can help you towards sustainable mobile operations? Read more about our zero-emission power generation solutions here.
