The search for clean, safe and cost-effective power-supplies for mobile networks continues with a fascinating new off-grid power solution being trialled in Romania.
GenCell Energy, a provider of hydrogen and ammonia power solutions, and SIMTEL Team (SMTL), a Romanian provider of rooftop photovoltaic (PV) plant solutions and service provider to the telecom segment, have deployed a GenCell FOX ammonia-based off-grid power solution field test at a mobile telecom tower site in Romania, operated by Vodafone.
The GenCell FOX is a low-temperature alkaline fuel cell which generates power from liquid ammonia – described as one of the most effective and energy-dense carbon-free hydrogen carriers – with only water, nitrogen and heat as its by–products.
The solution has been designed to comply with strict zero-emission sustainability objectives, to ensure resilient 24/7 continuous power, even in harsh weather conditions, and to minimise operating expenses through its use of economical and widely available liquid ammonia fuel.
When handled in accordance with regulations and proper equipment, liquid ammonia achieves excellent safety records. Composed of nitrogen and hydrogen, ammonia is carbon-free, and thanks to the broad availability of existing infrastructure, growing market demand and technological developments, ammonia is an increasingly cost-effective green energy vector.
The GenCell FOX is designed for placement in remote locations distanced from urban areas. It requires minimal on-site maintenance and service.
Results so far have been positive. Upon demonstration of the resilient and reliable performance of the solution, Vodafone will showcase it to different business units.
Will what Rami Reshef, CEO GenCell, calls “a substantial uptake in interest in its solutions across the telecom sector” eventually be proved in the market? A cost-effective, carbon-free solution usable in remote areas could certainly be in with a chance.