NTT DATA signs 900 MW fuel cell deal with Bloom Energy
The data center operator will use onsite fuel cells to power projects worldwide, with first shipments in 2027.
NTT DATA has agreed to buy 900 MW of onsite fuel cell power from Bloom Energy for data center projects around the world, the latest sign that large operators are building their own power rather than waiting on the grid.
The companies announced the agreement Nov. 5. Bloom will supply its fuel cells, which generate electricity without combustion, to multiple projects run by NTT Global Data Centers. First shipments are scheduled for 2027. The companies did not disclose the contract value or name the sites.
Bloom called it its largest international project to date. The companies said the arrangement is designed to grow across NTT’s portfolio and eventually reach gigawatt scale.
The stated reason is speed. NTT said demand for AI infrastructure is growing faster than grids can always supply, and that how quickly a site can get power now decides how quickly capacity comes online. The company also cited the fuel cells’ low local air emissions, minimal water use and quiet operation.
The deal landed the same day Bloom was named in a second large project. Its fuel cells will power a 702 MW plant that American Electric Power is building for Google’s first data center in Wyoming, according to The Motley Fool. It reported that AEP will sell the output to Google under a 20-year contract and expects the plant to be fully running by late 2028.
Investors were not impressed that day. Bloom shares fell about 16% on Nov. 5 to close at $167.52. The Motley Fool attributed the drop to concern that growing local opposition to data centers could slow construction. The stock remained up more than 90% for the year.
Sources: Bloom Energy announcement, The Tech Capital, The Motley Fool
