Decarbonization refers to the widespread adoption of solutions that contribute to a carbon-neutral society. Southwest Research Institute offers advanced science and applied technology that aid in lowering carbon emissions through development of decarbonization technology, including energy storage, carbon capture, and hydrogen combustion and compression.
For more information, contact Tim Allison or call +1 210 522 3561.
Industrial Decarbonization Solutions
We help industry and government to develop industrial decarbonization solutions such as Advanced Power Systems and Machinery that increase energy efficiency while lowering CO2 emissions from power generation and industrial technology.
Storing Energy in Batteries & Machinery – We aid development of Energy Storage Systems for the automotive, utilities, and power generation industries. From analysis of battery technology to Thermal, Mechanical & Chemical Energy Storage systems, we offer the following services:
- Materials engineering
- Battery testing
- Site evaluation
- Feasibility studies
- Preliminary design
- Systems integration
- Software development
Capturing & Sequestering Carbon – SwRI offers clients scientific know-how and process development expertise in carbon capture and sequestration to assist in the development of technologies to respond to climate change regulation.
- Carbon Capture
- Carbon Dioxide Pipeline Technologies
- Oxy-Fuel Combustion
- Supercritical Carbon Dioxide Power Systems
Renewable Energy – SwRI offers solutions that advance clean energy capabilities by developing clean technology to help utilities integrate solar and wind energy into the grid. As an Institute with several different technical divisions, SwRI can bring a multidisciplinary approach to create renewable energy solutions.
Leak Detection – Leak detection is vital for maintaining safe, reliable pipeline technology. SwRI uses pipeline simulations to test the viability and appropriate placement of a leak detection system. The Institute also uses this method to determine the effect of a leak on the pipeline network by analyzing the variability in pressure and flow.
Building the Hydrogen Economy – The fluids and machinery engineers at SwRI collaborate with Institute chemists, scientists, and fire technology researchers to develop safe and efficient hydrogen combustion and compression technologies used in energy storage, automotive, fuel refining, among other applications.
Automotive Electrification & Emissions – SwRI is helping to advance decarbonization in the automotive industry through fuel-efficient combustion engines and electric, hybrid electric, and hydrogen-powered vehicles.
AI & Data Center Decarbonization
Data centers are rapidly becoming the largest emerging energy users—especially with the rise of AI workloads and high-density compute infrastructure. Southwest Research Institute (SwRI) is developing and integrating advanced energy technologies to help data and AI center operators meet power needs at scale while accelerating sustainability goals. Our data center decarbonization services and capabilities include:
- Resilient On-Site Power Systems – Integration of stationary fuel cells (PEM, SOFC), electrolyzers and hydrogen-compatible combustion engines for reliable and low-emission power generation.
- High-Efficiency Thermal Management – Development and testing of advanced heat exchangers, sCO₂ cycles and absorption chiller integration to improve energy reuse and reduce cooling loads. Visit Data Center Cooling Testing & Research for more information.
- Hydrogen Generation & Storage – On-site hydrogen production via electrolysis or pyrolysis (NG, biogas), with solid-state and compressed H₂ storage options tailored for peak shaving or baseload microgrid support.
- Battery Testing & Evaluation – Independent testing of energy storage systems (BESS), including thermal, electrical, and performance validation for behind-the-meter and grid-integrated deployments.
- Predictive Microgrid Control – Supervisory energy dispatch and real-time controls for dynamic workloads, enabling participation in grid services and demand response programs.
- Circular Energy Platforms – Advanced R&D in waste heat recovery, water reuse, and CO₂ capture/utilization to enable circular, low-carbon energy ecosystems at hyperscale campuses.
- Data Center Immersion Cooling – Research spanning fluids and lubricants, battery immersion cooling and materials science.
SwRI also provides demonstration-scale testing and validation, including megawatt-class hydrogen fuel cells, electrolyzers, combustion engines and sCO₂ power systems—ideal for de-risking new energy architectures before large-scale deployment.
To learn more, contact Richard Fu or call +1 210 522 5915.