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 For the first time on its network SFR, a leading French mobile phone service provider, has installed a fuel cell system using liquid methanol as an alternative backup power source. SFR is trialling IdaTech’s fuel cell technology at one of its remote base stations in Pigna Corbino, Corsica. Chloride was commissioned to provide an IdaTech 48VDC ElectraGen5 XTR fuel cell system at this crucial site which was prone to grid failure. Fuel cell technology provides an ecological and innovative solution and its long autonomy is a great advantage for such a remote site with difficult access. Through remote monitoring capabilities, SFR is notified when the fuel cell system activates to provide immediate backup power until the main supply is restored.
Due to its UNESCO-protected classification and limited space, the site was not appropriate for installation of a diesel generator and due to its remote location hydrogen siting was not an option. SFR’s commitment to the environment led the provider to search for a liquid-fuelled, low maintenance solution to reduce the impact on the environment with giving minimal pollution, virtually no noise and seamless integration into the natural environment.
The IdaTech ElectraGen5 XTR combines a PEM fuel cell stack, reformer, fuel storage and delivery, controls and power electronics. The ElectraGen5 XTR produces high-grade hydrogen internally for the fuel cell stack, enabling days of operation from a very compact liquid fuel source. It also provides an economical solution by producing hydrogen on-site as required, avoiding the traditional challenges associated with hydrogen delivery and storage.
www.idatech.com
•Date: 18th July 2008• Region: W.Europe •Type: Article •Topic: Power management
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