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Fuel Cell Operation

Telecommunications installations with backup fuel cell power often incorporate both fuel cells and batteries. Switching between the primary power source and the backup power sources is controlled by rectifiers or controllers that sense changes in system voltage.

When the grid or other primary alternating current (AC) power source is lost, the fuel cells or fuel cells and batteries combination take over to provide direct current (DC) power to keep equipment running. The batteries of the fuels cells' internal batteries provide temporary "bridge" power until the fuel cell starts up and reaches peak power production. The fuel cell then takes over the load. Fuel cell can provide from 24 to 96 hours of backup power, depending on the amount of hydrogen fuel in their storage cylinders.

Once the primary power source is restored, the fuel cells shut down, and the load is returned to the primary source.

Learn more about codes and standards related to telecommunications backup power fuel cell equipment.