UK cleantech outfit AFC Energy has deployed an electric vehicle (EV) charger that generates electricity using small-scale fuel cells.
AFC Energy’s CH2ARGE system was demonstrated at Dunsfold Aerodrome, home to the BBC Top Gear test track, where a BMW i8 was recharged with power generated by a hydrogen fuel cell.
The company is gearing up to commercialise fuel cell-based EV chargers to meet growing demand for environmentally friendly power in the EV market.
Most EV charging uses power from the grid, which is supplied by fossil fuel power plants, though renewables are providing more clean sources of electricity generation.
Fuel cells take hydrogen and oxygen and convert into electrical energy.
AFC Energy says its CH2ARGE system could potentially deliver locally-generated electricity through thousands of installations that generate 100% clean electricity avoiding investment in new generating capacity and upgrading the distribution network.
AFC Energy chief executive Adam Bond said: “By 2030, it is estimated that there could be nine million electric vehicles on the roads of Britain, up from 90,000 today.
“For this transition, we need charging stations to be embedded throughout the country, as well as seeking innovative solutions to overcome the severe limitations of centrally generated electricity.”
CH2ARGE includes AFC Energy’s small-scale fuel cell connected to an inverter similar to those used by major automotive companies at various EV research centres.
The inverter transfers energy created by the fuel cell to a charger. The system is supported by a 48 volt battery pack to assist with peak power demands.
The solution can also be tailored for both on and off grid applications and scale up as required.
The demonstration CH2ARGE system is sized to provide sufficient power to charge two EVs concurrently at recharging levels 1,2 or 3.
The system’s inverters are controlled via AFC Energy’s fuel cell control system which ensures the safe and precise control of the complete setup. The system can ensure the CH2ARGE system is smart charging compatible.