Hydrogen delivery and storage options for backup power and off-grid primary power fuel cell systems

As fuel cells become a larger percentage of telecom backup power packages, the delivery and storage of hydrogen is key. ReliOn has been at the forefront of hydrogen supply alternatives and infrastructure strategies since the company was established in 1995. This work has included fuel reforming and chemical production R&D programs, metal hydride testing, electrolyzer investigations, high pressure storage evaluations and conventional packaged gas and bulk gas distribution infrastructure. ReliOn continues to support customers with assistance in securing commercially mature, cost-effective and available hydrogen distribution and storage solutions. This paper focuses on hydrogen delivery, distribution and storage options which are available today or are expected to become cost-effective and commercially viable in the near future. Current fueling solutions include hydrogen cylinder distribution and exchange services provided by national or regional gas suppliers and/or third party service providers. Near term alternatives under development involve field refill of fixed vessels in hydrogen storage cabinets, ground storage modules or composite pressure vessels. This option-patterned on bulk gas deliveries to industrial users-can provide extended run time, reduce labor requirements and transport logistics, and decrease hydrogen wastage. Other options include high pressure hydrogen delivery and storage; and additional bulk hydrogen delivery systems under development. Discussion will be added regarding alternate methods for providing hydrogen which are not yet seen as commercially mature.