Energys has unveiled the first of five hydrogen fuel cell generators being manufactured in Mulgrave, Victoria, for Telstra as part of an alternative energy backup pilot program.
The hydrogen fuel cell generators are designed as a drop-in zero emissions replacement for traditional diesel electric generators.
Telstra will install the units at five Victorian sites with a history of storm related power blackouts to provide on-demand zero emissions backup power, with co-funding from the state government.
Energy and resources minister Lily D’Ambrosio saw a demonstration, adding the state’s renewable hydrogen will have a key role in Victoria’s transition to 95% renewable energy by 2035.
“This innovative project uses renewable energy to keep the power running during an emergency, helping to maintain vital telecommunications, which is critical as we encounter more frequent extreme weather events.”
The generator delivers 10kW of AC power and is part of a range of zero-emissions power products designed and manufactured in Victoria.
The hydrogen is passed through the fuel cell, which undergoes an electrochemical reaction, producing electricity and pure water vapour.
Energys managing director Dr Roger Knight says huge demand exists globally for power products.
“The diesel generator market is over US$20 billion per annum,” he explains.
“That’s an enormous demand for fossil-fuel-based generators that must be phased out.
“We look forward to engaging with companies eager to meet their emissions targets with reliable, commercially viable zero emissions products like this one.”
Energrys’ facility is set for further growth and will deliver around 50MW of fuel cell products annually as part of its phase one expansion.
Telstra will power the fuel cell generators from green hydrogen sources, including Energy’s hydrogen production facility under construction for which details will be announced in coming weeks.
Energys Australia is developing a renewable hydrogen production facility that will produce renewable hydrogen via electrolysis.
The project will facilitate the uptake of renewable hydrogen, not only for use in the transportation sector but also as an alternative for other ways diesel is utilised.
A $1m grant goes toward the $4m project cost.
The Victorian government provided a Renewable Hydrogen Commercialisation Pathways Fund grant of $1,115,185 to Telstra for the Telstra renewable hydrogen fuel cell generator pilot at mobile sites project.
The project enables renewable hydrogen to support the electricity system and reliability for telecom services in times of high demand.
