“As a supplier of integrated solutions, the decarbonization of our drive, propulsion and power generation systems is a key strategic aim. In pursuing it, we're open to all technologies. Hence fuel cells are set to become a key technology for us,” said Andreas Schell, CEO of Rolls-Royce Power Systems.
Dr Martin Teigeler, R&D chief of Power Systems, added, “The idea behind the fuel cell is as ingenious as it is simple and we're all pretty familiar with it. But implementing it in practice can still be a difficult challenge. Now that fuel cells have reached series maturity, they're ready for the commercial market.”
Alongside fuel cell technology, Rolls-Royce is researching the manufacture of hydrogen and other synthetic fuels using renewable energy sources – also for use in fuel cells. “Used in this combination, fuel cells promise to make an even bigger contribution to the energy turnaround,” said Teigeler. “And we're delighted to have Lab1886 as our partner, because their technological mindset fits ours perfectly. We're confident that Mercedes-Benz fuel cell modules have the potential to open up new application possibilities in stationary power generation as well, and that's our market.”
“Our innovativeness has always been one of the main drivers of our long-term success and cross-industry exchange and collaboration have always been vital to it. We're delighted to be supporting Rolls-Royce on a pilot project that will bring us closer to a successful energy transition outside the realm of the automobile,” said Susanne Hahn, head of Lab1886 Global.
Fuel cells for data centers
Modern society would struggle to function without data centers, but they are also among the biggest energy consumers. Fuel cells are now a feasible proposition for the carbon-neutral generation of emergency and continuous power to keep data centers up and running. Few energy technologies offer the same level of reliability and modular scalability and include all the benefits of renewable energies without dependence on the conventional energy market. Constantly fed with hydrogen, fuel cell systems can generate continuous power. Synergies can also be exploited for cooling purposes, since the outlet temperature of the computer system coolant corresponds to the inlet temperature of the fuel cell coolant.
Press photos are available for download from www.rrpowersystems.com/press