Arcola Energy has delivered and installed a unique hydrogen fuel cell system, as part of an innovative energy storage project in the Orkney Islands.
Prominent experts in hydrogen fuel cell technology and regulatory compliance, the company collaborated with Proton Motor, a leading German specialist company for this its first ever UK project.
The 75kW hydrogen fuel cell system is part of the innovative ‘Surf ‘n’ Turf’ project in Orkney.
This project converts excess renewable electricity into hydrogen on the island of Eday.
The hydrogen is then stored and transported to Kirkwall, where the newly designed fuel cell converts the hydrogen back into electricity to power ferries in port and heat buildings on the harbour, with zero local emissions.
Dr Ben Todd, managing director of Arcola said: “We’re particularly pleased to have collaborated with Germany’s Proton Motor.
“As an independent system integrator and project developer we are always interested in new partnerships with hydrogen and fuel cell technology suppliers in energy generation and transport markets.”
The hydrogen fuel cell system is unique in that it is configured as a ‘walk-in’ training facility.
Todd hopes that this will give the local economy a boost, providing opportunities for developing skills amongst the resident work force for future jobs using such pioneering technology.
Arcola Energy will initially provide training to the operators of the fuel cell and later support the training of maintenance staff and marine vessels crews.
Todd added: “We are delighted to have played a part in the delivery of this unique renewable energy project, which demonstrates the central role that hydrogen can play in our future low carbon energy mix.”
Later this year, Arcola Energy will supply a fleet of hydrogen-powered vans which will also run off Orkney’s new hydrogen supply.
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