BDC-CNE deal to test barge-based hydrogen power for Singapore's AI data centres

BDC and CNE signed an MOU to develop hydrogen supply and offshore systems.

Bridge Data Centres (BDC) and Concord New Energy (CNE) have signed a memorandum of understanding (MOU) to develop hydrogen-based energy solutions for Singapore’s data centres.

Under the MOU, the partners will explore advanced power systems for AI-ready data centre campuses. A key focus is Singapore’s first barge-based hydrogen power model, designed for offshore or nearshore use.

The agreement includes working with Nanyang Technological University (NTU) on research and deployment  with the setup aiming to use land efficiently, separate hydrogen handling from core data centre operations, and provide flexibility for hydrogen storage and transport.

The collaboration will also cover hydrogen supply chains, including storage, transport, system integration, renewable power purchase agreements, and energy storage solutions for data centres.

Eric Fan, CEO of BDC, said the partnership shows a commitment to diversifying power sources and developing hydrogen solutions whilst Joe Zhou, CEO of Global Business at CNE, noted Singapore’s role as a maritime and energy hub as a basis for testing hydrogen systems.

Through the Concord Clean Energy Research Centre, CNE will carry out applied clean energy research and work with NTU and public agencies on scalable hydrogen solutions.

The partnership includes knowledge transfer and local talent development in hydrogen systems, renewable optimisation, and energy engineering.

The initiative also covers hydrogen infrastructure, including storage, transport, and generation, to support Singapore’s energy transition and data centre operations.