The promising pathway of fuel cells in power generation

Firstly, let’s look at how fuel cells work. They operate by converting chemical energy directly into electricity through electrochemical reactions. Hydrogen fuel is fed into the anode side of the fuel cell, where it is split into protons and electrons. The protons migrate through an electrolyte membrane to the cathode side, while the electrons are forced through an external circuit, generating electrical power. At the cathode, oxygen from the air combines with protons and electrons to produce water vapor and heat as byproducts. 

Studies have shown that fuel cells currently operate at between 50-60% higher efficiency than combustion engines, with zero tailpipe emissions. That said, there are conditions necessary for the reliable performance of fuel cells. Factors from operating temperatures to toxins and particles in the atmosphere can have a varying impact on fuel cell performance, so much must be done together with our OEMs to ensure a robust unit that is fit for purpose.

Unlocking the potential of fuel cells with green hydrogen
Green hydrogen, derived from electrolysis powered by renewable energy, can unleash fuel cell potential and expedite the shift towards a low-carbon economy. As the costs of renewable energy and advancing electrolysis technology go down, green hydrogen will become more competitive against traditional fossil fuels. Industrialization and broad adoption will mark a change in the energy sector, providing a clean and scalable energy carrier across various industries. In power generation, green hydrogen can power fuel cells, facilitating decentralized, efficient energy systems. 

Considering these benefits and the global developments to industrialize green hydrogen, it is clear why fuel cell technology is one of the cornerstones in Volvo Penta’s decarbonization strategy. Our plans encompass the adoption of renewable fuels in our combustion engine range – a parallel path utilizing green hydrogen, among others. They also extend to a battery-electric platform derived from the Volvo Group that spans off-highway electrification and battery energy storage subsystems. As industries decarbonize, Volvo Penta adopts a strong collaborative approach with its customers, working hand in hand to purpose build, engineer and trial solutions that ensure long-term affordability and viability in the energy transition.

A multi-tenet decarbonization strategy 
At Volvo Penta we are fortunate to capitalize on being part of the Volvo Group to expedite the development of fuel cells. The Volvo Group’s joint venture with Daimler Trucks, Cellcentric, anticipates accelerated development and enhanced speed to market, progressing in sustainable energy solutions. With ongoing trials of fuel cell deployment already in Volvo Trucks on public roads, Volvo Penta envisions its future role expanding into new energy solutions catered to stationary and mobile genset applications.

Power generation applications
With continuous electricity generation at higher efficiency and low emissions, fuel cells are ideal for various industrial applications such as:

• Primary power: where the always-on nature of fuel cells can fill intermittent gaps.

• Backup power systems: to reduce grid dependency, spanning emergency backup power (e.g. in hospitals), large-scale community events (e.g. concerts), retail establishments (e.g. cold storage warehouses and supermarkets), and municipals (e.g. police and fire stations).

• Charging support: in the form of mobile power generation to charge electric equipment and vehicles in remote areas (e.g. construction projects).

The future of power generation
The opportunities presented by fuel cells in both mobile and stationary power generation segments are immense, offering a pathway in the energy transition. By leveraging the potential of green hydrogen and embracing fuel cell technology, we can decarbonize power generation, reduce greenhouse gas emissions, and pave the way for a cleaner and more resilient energy ecosystem.

In a future powered by fuel cells, energy systems can be decentralized, resilient and sustainable, with a greater emphasis on renewable energy integration, energy storage and grid flexibility. By embracing fuel cell technology and harnessing the potential of green hydrogen, we hope to accelerate the transition towards a low-carbon future and build a more sustainable society.