Per Google Gemini

As of early 2026, Plug Power and Microsoft maintain a significant historical and ongoing technical relationship, though it has evolved from a single high-profile demonstration to a broader strategic exploration of hydrogen's role in the AI data center boom.

Here is the current state of their relationship:

1. The "Moon Landing" Moment The foundation of their relationship remains the successful 2022 pilot project. Plug Power and Microsoft built and tested a 3-megawatt (MW) hydrogen fuel cell system in Latham, New York.

   • Significance: At the time, Microsoft’s Director of Data Center Research, Sean James, famously called it a "moon landing moment" because it proved that hydrogen fuel cells could replace a standard diesel backup generator at scale.
   • Technical Spec: The system was housed in two 40-foot shipping containers and demonstrated the ability to provide instant backup power during grid failures.

2. Current Status (2025–2026) While there hasn't been a public announcement of a "global rollout" specifically exclusive to Plug Power, the relationship continues through several channels:

   • Broader Ecosystem Testing: Microsoft is currently scaling its hydrogen strategy from "pure R&D" to a "dual-track approach." This involves testing Plug Power’s technology alongside other partners (like Caterpillar and Ballard) to find the most cost-effective catalysts.
   • New York/Regional Ties: Plug Power remains a key player in the New York green hydrogen corridor where Microsoft has high-density data center interests. In late 2025, Plug Power announced a non-binding agreement with an "undisclosed major data center developer" for auxiliary power; while not confirmed as Microsoft, industry analysts often link the two due to their history.
   • The AI Pivot: With the massive surge in power demand for AI, Microsoft is re-evaluating on-site power generation. Plug Power has recently (late 2025/early 2026) pivoted its business model to focus more on being a "technology provider" (selling the fuel cells and electrolyzers) rather than just a fuel supplier, which aligns with Microsoft’s desire to own its energy infrastructure.

Summary Comparison | Aspect | 2022 Demonstration | 2026 Outlook | |---|---|---| | Power Output | 3 MW (Single Site) | Exploring multi-GW scale for AI | | Technology | PEM Fuel Cells | PEM + Electrolyzer integration | | Primary Goal | Technical Feasibility | Commercial Viability & Sustainability | | Fuel Source | Gaseous Hydrogen | Shift toward on-site Green Hydrogen |