HyWatts 1 MW HTPEM reversible fuel cell system.
Image: HyWatts
US-based startup HyWatts has unveiled the Powerplant-in-a-Box system, a reversible high-temperature proton exchange membrane (HTPEM) fuel cell that, like any other fuel cell, can generate electricity from hydrogen while operating in reverse. can function as an electrolyzer that produces hydrogen from electricity.
The system is intended to supply renewable energy to remote locations, eliminating the need to upgrade grid infrastructure, the company said in a statement.
The system uses a phosphoric acid-doped membrane that does not require permanent wetting, unlike the PFSA-based membranes commonly used. This allows the elimination of the humidification and reagent recirculation systems required for low-temperature proton exchange membrane (LTPEM) fuel cells. It also extends the operating temperature range, from 60 C to 80 C for LTPEM to 120 C to 180 C for HTPEM.
The wider operating range, coupled with the company’s patented bipolar plate technology (BPP), enables direct air cooling for megawatt systems, limiting the power generation subsystem to just the HTPEM stack and a cooling fan.
“An additional benefit of our HTPEM technology is the use of low-cost materials and manufacturing technologies in stack production,” the company says in a technical white paper describing the system published this year. “Stainless steel BPPs with proprietary coatings can be manufactured using the most cost-effective and mature technologies available: stamping and electroplating.”
The company claims that for a community consisting of 50 off-grid homes powered by microgrids, energy supply can be assured at a behind-the-meter price of $0.12/kWh. HyWatts explains that 1 kg covers the energy needs of an American household for one day.
The system was also tested for use as a hydrogen feed gas for industrial processes and was found to provide energy at a marginal cost of $2.38/kg.
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