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FCEL Targets AI Data Centers With DC Power and Carbon Capture
ZACKS· 2026-03-13 12:31
Core Insights - FuelCell Energy (FCEL) is focusing on AI data centers with its carbonate fuel cells, offering an 800-volt DC setup and a 13.8-kilovolt AC option for efficient power supply [1][8] - The company emphasizes the reuse of heat from fuel cells to power absorption chillers, which can enhance usable power load in data centers [2][8] - FuelCell Energy is advancing carbon-capture technology in collaboration with ExxonMobil, with a pilot project set to ship modules in 2026 [3][8] Group 1: FuelCell Energy's Strategy - FCEL targets AI data centers with its carbonate fuel cells, providing both 800-V DC and 13.8-kV AC options to power server racks or entire sites [1][8] - The heat produced by FCEL's fuel cells can be reused for absorption chillers, increasing usable power load from 69.5 MW to 77.2 MW in a 100-MW model, with an estimated $127 million added value over 20 years despite 10% higher upfront costs [2] - The company is expanding its manufacturing facility in Torrington, CT, to support production capacity of up to 350 MW, backed by $20-$30 million in planned capital spending for 2026 [3] Group 2: Industry Context - Other companies, such as Bloom Energy and Enphase Energy, are also positioning their technologies to meet the growing demand for reliable power in data centers [4][5][6] - Bloom Energy identifies data centers as its largest and fastest-growing market segment, focusing on dependable onsite fuel cell power to reduce reliance on utility grids [5] - Enphase Energy is expanding into commercial energy solutions, with products designed to support data-intensive facilities [6] Group 3: Market Performance - Shares of FuelCell Energy have declined by 4.4% this year, underperforming the industry's growth [7]