Developing a Novel and Integrated Datacenter Concept Design Based on Hydrogen Production

Over the past few decades, data centers have made significant strides in enhancing their sustainability practices. These efforts range from minimizing power usage effectiveness (PUE) and carbon usage effectiveness (CUE) to enhancing water usage effectiveness (WUE). However, it's time for the data center industry to take a groundbreaking step forward. By effectively managing waste heat, data centers can become energy providers, boosting their profitability, and improving their energy reuse effectiveness (ERE) metrics. In this paper, we explore the crucial role of efficient heat management in optimizing the performance of an electrolyzer and maximizing the production of green hydrogen. Specifically, we focus on the importance of maintaining the stack temperature of the electrolyzer within a specific range to ensure maximum efficiency. We then propose a novel and integrated design concept for data centers that combines hydrogen production with district heating. An electrolyzer can be connected to both the data center and district heating systems, enabling the heat management system of the data center (e.g., heat pump) for powering the electrolyzer. Additionally, district heating can be utilized for thermal management of the electrolyzer, further improving the overall efficiency of the system. Additionally, the waste heat produced during the electrolysis process can be harnessed and employed to supplement the district heating system. This symbiotic relationship between the two systems results in a reduction in carbon emissions and improved energy efficiency. Our paper examines the technical feasibility of this proposed system and highlights the potential benefits for data centers and district
heating systems.