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We recently visited an NTT DOCOMO telecom site in Shika Town, Hakui District, Ishikawa Prefecture, where we observed a fuel cell power generation system utilizing green hydrogen.

NTT DOCOMO has launched an operational demonstration of a green hydrogen fuel cell system at a commercial telecom site. This demonstration, the first of its kind in the Hokuriku region, uses a pure hydrogen fuel cell powered by green hydrogen as an emergency power source, aiming to strengthen both the decarbonization and resilience of telecommunications infrastructure.

Background and Objectives of the Demonstration

To ensure the continuity of communications services during disasters, NTT DOCOMO has deployed backup batteries and methanol-reforming fuel cells as emergency power sources at telecom sites nationwide. However, because methanol fuel cells emit CO₂ during power generation, reducing environmental impact remained a challenge. To address this issue, there is a growing need for a pure hydrogen fuel cell emergency power source capable of long-duration operation using green hydrogen.

In this demonstration, NTT DOCOMO plans to verify the stable operation of pure hydrogen fuel cells, evaluate combined operation with existing battery systems, and assess maintenance and servicing methods for long-term deployment. Through these efforts, knowledge is being accumulated to support the practical use of hydrogen fuel cells at commercial telecom sites.

Fuel Cell Generator Equipped with Our FC Module

In this demonstration, a fuel cell generator equipped with Toyota Industries Corporation’s 8 kW FC Module for generators has been adopted.

The fuel cell generator was developed and supplied by Toyota Energy Solutions Corporation, while installation work at the telecom site was carried out by MIRAIT ONE Corporation. Through collaboration among the telecommunications operator, generator manufacturer, installation company, and FC module manufacturer, efforts are underway to realize a new telecommunications infrastructure utilizing hydrogen.

Our FC Module is based on technologies developed for fuel cell forklifts and is expected to provide stable power supply even in emergency backup power applications such as telecom sites.

In addition, the module supports the DC48V power supply voltage commonly used at telecom sites. This enables easy integration with existing telecom equipment and battery systems, allowing existing infrastructure to be effectively utilized.

Another feature of our FC Module is its short startup time. In the event of a power outage, it can quickly start generating power and contribute to maintaining communications services as a backup power source.

Conclusion

In this demonstration, a fuel cell generator equipped with our 8 kW FC Module for generators has been adopted for use at a commercial telecom site.

Toyota Industries Corporation will continue contributing to the realization of a sustainable society through the development and sales of component products, including FC Modules, that support carbon neutrality.