Emergency backup for Europe’s most powerful supercomputer

Supply:

• Cummins C1400D5 generator set
• Custom-configured enclosure with particulate filter and load bank
• Design, supply, installation and commissioning

As Europe’s most powerful supercomputer, the Jupiter High Performance Facility (HPC) near Aachen in Germany uses massive volumes of power to run its scientific and AI applications, which means it needs failsafe emergency power to avoid data loss and operational downtime. To fulfil this need, digital transformation company Eviden—a developer of the computer and subsidiary of French IT group Atos—turned to Cummins, reflecting a continuing strategic drive for mission-critical power in HPC and data-center environments.

Cummins was asked to provide an integrated system that would supply robust backup in the event of grid failure while also complying with stringent German emission standards. The system would also need to be housed in an external enclosure to match the modular layout of the Jupiter facility, which containerizes its computer racks and other equipment. Aligning the power solution to Jupiter’s modular, containerized philosophy not only enabled streamlined deployment at the time but also straightforward capacity scaling in the future.

The design phase saw Cummins engineers collaborate with Eviden specialists to ensure the system met all required parameters. Regulatory topics were addressed early to avoid redesign delays and keep the schedule on track. Final proposals centered on a containerized 50 Hz Cummins C1400D5 1,120 kW diesel generator with a combined particulate filter and load bank for optimum compliance, operational efficiency and added assurance for Eviden. The integrated load bank supports closed-loop monthly verification without external rentals, improving availability and reducing operating cost.

With specifications agreed, Cummins integrated the generator and accessories and commissioned a third-party supplier to fabricate a bespoke  container delivered under Cummins’ global quality system to maintain consistent brand standards and documentation. After factory acceptance testing—with Eviden again involved for additional confidence—the new equipment was delivered, installed, and commissioned at the Jupiter site.

The solution fully answers the performance and regulatory requirements set by the facility and wider location. As well as delivering dependable power, the plant offers full emissions compliance. The C1400D5 generator set is emission-certified to EPA Tier 2, while the particulate filter conforms with Germany’s 44. BImSchV Ordinance standard. Tier 2 addresses engine-out emissions and the particulate filter provides at-exhaust fine particle reduction to meet local limits.

The load bank also enables and simplifies monthly testing to increase system uptime and capture lower long-term operational costs, so supporting  documented readiness without disrupting production workloads.

The Jupiter supercomputer now has the backup it needs to continue running uninterrupted if its primary power source falters: an essential given its huge power needs and status as one of the world’s top-tier supercomputing facilities. The new power solution is also a clear testament to the Cummins-Eviden partnership model that prioritizes reliability, compliance and lifecycle value.

“This project is an excellent example of collaboration between our engineering teams in France and the customer’s technical specialists. By integrating emissions compliance, acoustic treatment and a built-in load bank within a single containerized solution, we ensured the Jupiter HPC facility is reliable and future-ready. It showcases Cummins’ ability to adapt to demanding regulatory and operations environments.”

Yanis Baoun

Gensets Turnkey Projects
Business Developer, France Gensets