A method of providing electrical power using a split bus configuration includes receiving a first direct current at a positive bus of a split bus, where the first direct current originates from a first fuel cell segment. A second direct current is received at a negative bus of the split bus, where the second direct current originates from a second fuel cell segment. A third direct current is also received at the split bus such that a combined direct current is formed including the first direct current, the second direct current, and the third direct current. The third direct current originates from an alternative direct current (DC) source. The combined direct current is provided to an inverter such that an alternating current is generated for a load.