Fuel Cells and Ultracapacitors: a Proven Value Proposition versus Incumbent Technologies

Abstract

Hydrogenics Corporation has collaborated with Maxwell Technologies to demonstrate the viability of fuel cells and ultracapacitors for extended run backup power systems. Both companies have been working together to develop new products in combination that provide increased availability and backup power runtime to address the demanding standards and requirements of the telecommunication industry. Based on proton exchange membrane (PEM) technology, the fuel cell and ultracapacitor solution utilizes hydrogen for energy storage and has demonstrated the flexibility to meet real telecom load backup power needs. These rack-mountable and space efficient backup generators utilize hydrogen to offer high quality extended run backup power, zero emissions and are turnkey solutions capable of replacing incumbent technology. The paper will discuss how the system has been designed to meet telecommunication industry benchmarks requirements including the design philosophy and functionality, and the technical configuration and specification