Top 4 applications of stationary fuel cells
Stationary fuel cells are used for a range of applications, including backup power, primary power generation or as an integrated power supply in the form of smart grids. They offer high efficiency, reliability, and the ability to provide clean energy, making them suited to a variety of industries.
What is a fuel cell?
Fuel cells generate electricity through electrochemical reactions, where no combustion takes place. In stationary power applications, they offer lower emissions and higher efficiency than internal combustion power generation sources, delivering clean energy that is also scalable.
You can learn more about the science behind hydrogen fuel cell technology in our article.
IE-POWER fuel cells
IE-POWER is our eco-friendly hydrogen fuel cell product line that targets applications that are traditionally served by either diesel generators or battery-only power systems. The key benefits of IE-POWER include:
- Small, light and power dense
- Compact and easy to integrate
- Modular and scalable
- Configurable to work with various battery technologies
- Quiet operation
IE-POWER 4 is our fuel cell module designed for stationary power applications. Example use cases of this fuel cell module include micro-grids, telecom towers and critical infrastructure. The module provides 4kW of power and can support areas where access and quality of grid power is unreliable.
IE-POWER 1T and 1U are our class-leading 1kW fuel cell modules ideal for use in portable power applications such as materials handling equipment in warehouses, manufacturing facilities and construction sites.
What are the top 4 applications of stationary fuel cells?
1. Backup power
- Telecommunications – stationary fuel cells can be used to provide backup power for telecoms towers and data centres due to the provision of reliable power without the need for grid connection. This can support sites during power outages or to fill intermittency gaps.
- Critical infrastructure – hospitals and emergency response centres use stationary fuel cells for uninterrupted power supply which is essential in emergency situations. This can be in remote areas or in regions where power supply isn’t reliable.
2. Primary power generation
- Building sites – fuel cells can be integrated into welfare cabins on construction sites to support the running of appliances. Not only does this reduce emissions on site, but it also enables the cabins to be self-sufficient and off-grid, reducing the need and pressure on mains electricity on-site.
- Residential homes – some regions use fuel cells in homes for electricity and heating, usually through combined heat and power systems.
3. Grid support and stabilisation
- Distributed generation – fuel cells can help balance local grids. They provide additional power during peak demand times, boost power supply during periods of intermittency and reduce the strain on the central power grid.
- Microgrids – fuel cells provide a stable and independent power source for microgrids in remote or isolated areas. As long as hydrogen is supplied to the fuel cell, power should be available.
4. Renewable energy integration
- Hydrogen energy storage systems – when integrated alongside electrolysers, fuel cells systems can run on hydrogen generated from renewable sources like solar and wind. This can be stored and converted into electricity when needed, enhancing the stability and reliability of renewable energy systems.
With carbon emissions and ESG targets being critical to businesses around the globe, the transition to alternative energy sources and sustainable practices is becoming more prominent. Fuel cells offer versatility and environmental benefits across many industries. Their integration capabilities enable a greater window of applications to be sought after including backup power, primary power generation, grid support, renewable energy integration and waste-to-energy.
If you’d like to find out more about our capabilities and how we can help your business with its stationary fuel cell requirements, please get in touch with us today. Complete our contact form or send us an email at sales@intelligent-energy.com.