Development of a hybridised hydrogen fuel cell system by Element Energy Ltd

Element Energy is developing an innovative power product targeted at applications where
portability, silence and zero emissions are necessary. Our product is based on novel
technology, hybridizing a hydrogen fuel cell with lithium iron phosphate batteries to deliver a
high power, long duration power supply.
Silent, lightweight and with zero emissions, this will compete with conventional generators
which require noise and emission abatement equipment, and where their weight renders them
impractical.
Its high power output and high efficiency will enable it to replace diesel or petrol generators
in environmentally sensitive applications, a market of 100,000 sales per annum in the UK
alone.
The hybrid product has lower cost, lower weight and longer lifetime than other commercially
available fuel cell generators due to the innovative way our patent pending power electronics
controls the fuel cell.
We have produced a demonstration unit which proves the technical feasibility of the concept.
Development is now needed to incorporate that technology into a robust and reliable product
performing to the required specification. Characterisation and bench testing will feed into
extensive electrical redesign, while iterative customer interaction and field testing will refine
the specification of the product.
Element Energy are involved in consultancy and product development in the low carbon
energy sector, making us ideally placed to spot applications and markets for novel
technologies, while our technical skills and project management capability allow us to exploit
those opportunities. Our previous product development activities mean we have the right
commercial relationships and supply chains to bring products to market.
The proof of concept phase of this project was funded internally from consultancy revenues,
and we are now seeking support from the TSB to enable us to capitalize on this opportunity
quickly and competitively.