SFC Energy AG, a leading international supplier of stationary and mobile hybrid power solutions, has received a large-volume call-off order for hydrogen fuel cells. Together with its cooperation and license partner, adKor GmbH in Wildau, Germany, SFC will supply JUPITER fuel cell modules installed in system cabinets for emergency power backup of mobile phone masts for another German state until December 2020. The call-off order has a volume of more than 2.5 million euros for more than 100 locations. In the future, up to 1500 radio sites are to be equipped nationwide. The aim of the German government is to make the digital radio system of the authorities (BOSNet) future-oriented by providing a sustainable emergency power supply in every respect.
The hydrogen fuel cell is a key technology in this context. Its advantages are numerous. It is gradually being installed as an alternative energy supply and offers low-maintenance operation compared to conventional diesel generators. In addition, the hydrogen fuel cell emits noCO2, only water vapor. At the same time, it is able to reliably supply energy over a longer period of time. A standard hydrogen cylinder with a volume of 50 liters and an output of 2.5 kilowatt hours (kWh) provides more than seven hours of power supply. As a user requirement, the sites to be equipped are supplied with hydrogen for 72 hours of emergency power. Another advantage is the extremely low noise emission compared to diesel generators.
The German government has launched a broad funding program for the replacement. The additional costs incurred when purchasing a hydrogen fuel cell compared to a diesel generator are partially offset by the federal government. This additional incentive is currently leading to a sustained increase in demand for hydrogen fuel cell solutions.
"An important rethinking process towards sustainable energy supply is taking place in Germany. The economic stimulus program recently adopted by the federal government is impressive proof of this. As a pioneer in fuel cell technology, we are delighted not only to be able to support this process, but also to shape it with our many years of experience. Hydrogen and fuel cells are key technologies that make clean energy storable and transportable, but can also be used decentrally and adapted to the user's requirements. We are also considering the use of green hydrogen in the future," says Dr. Peter Podesser, CEO of SFC Energy.
"The large-volume call-off order confirms the sustainable performance of our hydrogen fuel cell solutions. They not only supply energy and reduce emissions, but also combine the many years of in-depth expertise of two strong partners for a greener future," says Hartmut Kordus, Managing Director of adKor GmbH.