A PureCell fuel cel from ClearEdge Power. (Photo: ClearEdge)
The case for implementing fuel cells in data center applications has advanced in recent years , showcasing the desire to use green energy, as well as reduce reliance on expensive 'just in case' power equipment. Looking to transform power generation with innovative solutions, Oregon-based ClearEdge Power has had a number of implementation wins for its PureCell fuel cell technology.
ClearEdge Power announced that First National Bank of Omaha has purchased a PureCell Model 400 fuel cell system for its First National Technology Center in Omaha, Nebraska. The bank has incorporated fuel cells in its data center operations since 1999.
"We have had a great experience with the reliability afforded our data center operations since installing our first fuel cells in 1999," said Brenda Dooley, president of First National Buildings. "They've repeatedly proven their value to our business, so we are confident in relying on this latest generation of fuel cell technology." With the new PureCell 400 system First National Bank of Omaha continues to benefit from the efficient fuel cell technology, while preventing the release of more than 1,500 metric tons of carbon dioxide annually. The PureCell Model 400 generates 400 kW of assured electrical power, plus 1.5 million Btu/hour of heat, for combined heat and power (CHP) applications.
"We are very pleased that once again First National Bank of Omaha has chosen ClearEdge Power to help meet its energy needs," said David B. Wright, Chief Executive Officer of ClearEdge Power. "With the upgrade to a Model 400 system, First National Bank of Omaha continues to lead by example and be a model for other businesses with continuous heat and power demands."
A University of Connecticut initiative will make use of ClearEdge fuel cells as well - for a $2.1 million microgrid project to provide reliable, uninterrupted power to a cluster of Depot Campus buildings during prolonged electric grid power outages. The microgrid will be supported by an existing 400kW fuel cell and a demonstration-scale 6.6 kW photovoltaic solar panel array located at the Depot Campus adjacent to the Center for Clean Energy Engineering.
Earlier in the year Verizon selected ClearEdge to install PureCell Model 400 fuel cell systems at Verizon sites in California, New Jersey and New York. The installations were part of a project to power 19 facilities with fuel cells and solar systems for generating 70 million Kilowatt Hours of its own green energy. The Verizon project was the largest single-user installation for ClearEdge to date. "We are delighted that Verizon has recognized the value of our products and experience can bring to their business operations," said David B. Wright. "This is a very exciting partnership for Clear Edge Power, and we are thrilled to be working with Verizon to help them reach their ambitious sustainability goals."
Fuel Cells: A Growth Market for the U.S.
According to a recent Energy Department report, the U.S. continues to be one of the fastest growing markets for fuel cell and hydrogen technologies. “Building a U.S. fuel cell and hydrogen technologies industry over the past few years is helping to pave the way to a cleaner, more sustainable energy future that protects our air and water, gives businesses more transportation options and reduces oil dependence,” said Energy Secretary Ernest Moniz. “As part of an all-of-the-above energy approach, fuel cell technologies are paving the way to competitiveness in the global clean energy market and to new jobs and business creation across the country.”
The Energy Department announced more than $7 million for projects that will help bring cost-effective, advanced hydrogen and fuel cell technologies online faster. This investment – across four projects in Georgia, Kansas, Pennsylvania and Tennessee – will increase U.S. leadership in fuel cell-powered vehicles and backup power systems, and give businesses more affordable, cleaner transportation and power options.
