Hydrogen fuel cells may be suited to more than powering next-gen cars. Italian electronics company Electro Power Systems just debuted a new fuel cell that could provide backup power for mobile networks run by wireless carriers. Where better to demonstrate the new technology than at the Mobile World Conference in Barcelona?
What makes Electro Power's system special is that it's self-recharging. One of the big problems with hydrogen fuel cells across the board is that the hydrogen fuel is steadily depleted, requiring constant maintenance and topping-off. To avoid this, the ElectroSelf produces water at the same time that it is generating energy -- water that is then recirculated and split into hydrogen, oxygen and heat. There is virtually zero waste.
Needing less than a square meter of floor space and no external cooling, each ElectroSelf unit can function just fine at 115 degrees Fahrenheit. This also sets it apart from fuel cells being developed elsewhere. By stripping away all of the accessories needed to keep the fuel cells functioning, the company has dramatically lowered the costs related to hydrogen power.
The ElectroSelf could be a major boon for the developing world, where more people rely on mobile phones than computers. Reliable wireless networks are vital for the economy, as well as community. Because the devices work so well in extreme and off-grid conditions, they could be broadly deployed in African and South East Asian countries than can't afford pricey transmission projects or broadband installation.
Based in Italy, Electro Power has also engineered its hydrogen technology to provide main and backup power for land line phones, and for electric utilities.