In a significant development, South Korea’s Doosan Corp. revealed on Friday its successful innovation in hydrogen polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cell (H2-PEMFC) systems tailored for residential and commercial applications. These cutting-edge systems boast capacities of 1kW and 10kW, promising a paradigm shift in sustainable energy solutions.
Distinguished by their direct utilization of hydrogen fuel, the H2-PEMFC systems represent a departure from conventional models reliant on natural gas reformation. This novel approach not only ensures superior electrical efficiency but also provides rapid load-following capabilities, attributed to lower operating temperatures compared to other hydrogen fuel cell types.
Doosan has received design and production stage certification for these groundbreaking systems under the stationary fuel cell safety standard KGS AH371, validating their safety and compliance with industry regulations.
The company has outlined strategic deployment plans for these systems in Samcheok City, Gangwon Province, recognized as one of South Korea’s hydrogen pilot cities. The aim is to conduct comprehensive demonstrations until 2024, showcasing the practical applications and performance of the H2-PEMFC systems.
In a collaborative effort with the Korea Institute of Energy Research, Doosan achieved a significant milestone by successfully operating an H2-PEMFC system utilizing hydrogen derived from ammonia. This breakthrough not only underscores the versatility of ammonia-derived hydrogen but also positions it as a credible alternative fuel source, offering comparable electricity generation to high-purity hydrogen.
Ammonia’s unique characteristics, including ease of liquefaction at room temperature under high pressure, present a promising solution for overcoming storage and transportation challenges associated with liquefied hydrogen.
Looking ahead, Doosan is actively diversifying its product portfolio, with a focus on developing hydrogen fuel cells for distributed generation and mobility applications. The company aims to complete the development of a robust 100kW H2-PEMFC system for distributed generation and a 60kW hydrogen fuel cell power pack tailored for construction machinery by 2026.
Furthermore, Doosan has set its sights on maritime applications, with plans to pursue the development of 100-200kW hydrogen fuel cells for ships. This strategic expansion aligns with the company’s commitment to advancing sustainable energy solutions across various sectors, contributing to the global transition towards cleaner and more efficient power sources.