GKN Hydrogen has commissioned an emergency power supply system in Italy capable of running for 96 hours through hydrogen storage.
The CO2-free operated communication tower was installed in Ratsberg, South Tyrol, for the Civil Protection Agency. It will provide continuous electrical output of 10kW.
The hydrogen, produced via grid electricity and electrolysis, is expected to be stored “almost loss-free” as a solid in metal powder for years. When needed, an integrated fuel cell converts the stored hydrogen back into electricity to operate the communication facility.
The client chose GKN’s solution to help maintain communication for public institutions during weather-related power outages and ensure uninterrupted safety.
“This successfully implemented project represents our first reference in the area of emergency power supply for critical infrastructure,” stated Matthias Innerbichler, Project Manager and Head of Sales & Application Engineering.
“It is a significant step towards a sustainable and emission-free emergency power supply and serves as a use case for future projects to support critical infrastructures, such as in rescue services and firefighting operations.”
He added that the system can be remotely controlled and updated by GKN’s service team, “Ensuring operational readiness at all times” – important in remote locations such as Ratsberg.
Earlier this month (August), GKN Hydrogen was acquired by Langley Holdings for an undisclosed price.
Read more:Hydride storage provider GKN Hydrogen acquired by Langley Holdings
Anthony Langley, Langley Holdings’ Chairman and CEO, said, “This underscores Langley Holdings’ strategic focus on sustainable energy solutions and commitment to a greener future.”
