Energy Efficiency Made Simple Vol IV 2015

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There are risks involved when it comes to commercialising the tech- nology, such as ensuring that the entire installation is correctly earthed, and ensuring a safe connection between the gas supply and the fuel cell. Although hydrogen itself is not a high-risk gas, the installation at Cofimvaba necessitated certain risk mitigation factors – such as lim- ited quantities of hydrogen on site, cordoning off of the installation to prevent tampering and theft (of small parts), and the use of a flexible hose between the manifold and cylinder which would rupture and vent in the unlikely case of fire. Hydrogen, known as the lightest and most abundant element in the universe, has a wide flammable range (of between 4% and 75%). In the normal operation of a fuel cell installation, due to design and safety considerations, there is no risk of explosion. As it is extremely light in molecular weight, in the case of a leak, hydrogen dissipates into the surrounding atmosphere. Uninterrupted power where it is needed most Hydrogen technology has particular application for stand-by power in the telecommunications industry, as well as mission-critical sectors such as hospitals and clinics. Hydrogen fuel cells have been used successfully in the US tele- communications industry as a form of back-up power supply for cell phone towers. We see great scope for this technology in the local telecoms industry. In summary, we see it in any context which requires an uninterrupted power supply - particularly in remote, rural areas. Second project: Storing medication A fuel cell project at a healthcare facility in Randburg, is addressing the problems of storing medication at the correct temperature during power outages. Conclusion Another advantage of hydrogen fuel cells is that they have no work- ing mechanical parts, require little or no maintenance while ‘up and running’, and have a considerably longer life-cycle than other forms of back-up power. Currently the cost per kW/hour of a hydrogen fuel cell system is not directly comparable with generated power. However, the ease of installation, reliability and low level of support required enable fuel cell systems to provide viable back-up to specific critical applications and in remote locations. Fuel cell technology is dependent on an efficient, cost-effective mode of hydrogen supply and distribution. The company represented by the author is committed to working alongside other stakeholders to develop a hydrogen distribution solution that is both scalable and economical for the end-user. Using fuel cells for back-up power in remote, disadvantaged and unindustrialised areas is just the start. As leaders in hydrogen-based technologies, we look forward to forging new partnerships and finding innovative ways of scaling up the technology, using our initial projects as basis. Not only does the technology address the numerous socio-eco- nomic challenges we have in this country, but it points to a more energy-efficient future, which is in line with the global drive to reduce carbon emissions.

‘Green’ technology Hydrogen fuel cells provide a stable power environment that is not at risk of theft, unlike batteries and generators. They are also much quieter than generators, making them non-disruptive and conducive to a learning environment. Above all, fuel cells are ‘green’ technology which adds to their relevance not only in the rural school environment, but in the wider industrial context, which is increasingly focused on reducing or elim- inating carbon emissions. Fuel cell technology is undoubtedly at the forefront of energy-relat- ed technology currently available; however, its implementation involves several aspects for consideration, and the input of various stakeholders. There is still much work to be done, for example, in terms of legislation in this country. The use of fuel cells is gaining increasing relevance globally and pilot projects, such as Cofimvaba, are vital for our understanding of the practical applicability of the technology. Challenges facing the development of hydrogen fuel cell tech- nology include changing legislation and changing corporate and industrial standards (both locally and internationally) relating to risk control mechanisms.

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ENERGY EFFICIENCY MADE SIMPLE 2015