Multi-fuel power system lets one engine run on ammonia and natural gas for data centers

Rising electricity demand from AI data centers has intensified the search for on-site power systems that can ease pressure on strained grids without locking operators into a single fuel. Developers are increasingly looking for technologies that deliver reliable power today while offering a path toward lower-carbon energy sources in the future. Amogy and Germany’s 2G Energy have now demonstrated one possible approach. The companies completed a joint test of a power generation system capable of operating on either ammonia or natural gas, marking a step toward fuel-flexible on-site electricity for data centers and other energy-intensive facilities. Engineers carried out the demonstration at Amogy’s Houston facility, where an ammonia reformer produced a hydrogen-rich fuel stream for a reciprocating engine-generator. According to the companies, the integrated system met the performance targets required for future commercial deployments and confirmed that the two technologies can operate together as intended. Two fuels, one engine At the heart of the demonstration is Amogy’s AMMDrive platform, which combines the company’s ammonia reformer with 2G Energy’s Agenitor 412 engine-generator. Instead of burning ammonia directly, the reformer converts it into a hydrogen-rich gas before sending the fuel to the engine. The generator then produces electricity using that reformate. Operators can also configure the same engine to run on natural gas, allowing facilities to switch fuel sources as operational needs change. Engineers focused on validating the interface between both systems. They tested fuel delivery, engine controls, and overall system integration during the demonstration. According to the companies, the integrated platform met the technical requirements needed for commercial use. The engine can also operate as a combined heat and power unit, generating electricity alongside usable thermal energy such as hot water to improve overall efficiency. Data center focus Reliable on-site generation has become increasingly important as utilities struggle to keep pace with electricity demand from expanding data centers and industrial facilities. Developers often face long waits for new grid connections, creating demand for power systems that can operate independently. The modular design allows customers to add capacity in stages instead of installing a large system upfront. That approach lets facilities expand generation as computing demand increases. Amogy said the platform also provides a pathway toward lower-carbon operations. Customers can initially rely on natural gas before gradually replacing it with hydrogen produced from low-carbon ammonia as supplies become available. “Customers need solutions that can meet today’s power constraints without limiting future opportunities,” said Amogy CEO Seonghoon Woo. He added that integrating the reformer with 2G’s engine gives operators a practical route toward incorporating ammonia over time. Commercial deployment next 2G Energy said the project also demonstrated the flexibility of its engine platform across multiple fuel types. “Our modular engine technology is designed to deliver reliable power while adapting to evolving customer requirements,” said 2G Energy CEO Pablo Hofelich. He said the collaboration expands opportunities for lower-carbon power generation across commercial applications.The partners plan to continue refining the reformer-engine integration before commercial deployments. They are also evaluating customer projects and preparing for potential installations in the United States, Asia and other markets where demand for distributed power continues to rise.Recommended ArticlesGet the latest in engineering, tech, space & science - delivered daily to your inbox.Aamir is a seasoned tech journalist with experience at Exhibit Magazine, Republic World, and PR Newswire. With a deep love for all things tech and science, he has spent years decoding the latest innovations and exploring how they shape industries, lifestyles, and the future of humanity.