The ONEC Group of Companies, an EPC&M firm based in Alberta, is delighted to announce the launch of its latest emergency power solution, the 5kW Hydrogen Fuel Cell (HFC) Module Building.
This module, which is powered by Gencell’s alkaline fuel cell, operates on industrial-grade hydrogen to provide clean, emissions-free power during crises until primary power is restored.
ONEC has developed various stand-alone solutions for specific industry needs since its start in 2000, working directly with clients to engineer and construct goods to their exact specifications. Now, as the world transitions to renewable energy, ONEC hopes that this newer product will serve as a cleaner, more environmentally friendly alternative to more traditional, fossil fuel-fired power solutions.
“ONEC has been exploring the clean power concept for a while and has really forged ahead in terms of committing the effort and resources required to make a change. This is the first hydrogen fuel cell in Alberta and only the second in Canada. It’s big news for green power and a chance for people to see hydrogen technology at work. That’s why ONEC took a bold step with the design and construction of this module for testing and demonstration purposes. ONEC takes action – actions that will ultimately benefit our communities and the environment,” said Joe Riordan, Engineer at ONEC Group of Companies.
The HFC was designed and produced in-house by ONEC’s multidisciplinary team of engineers and construction specialists. It can hold up to 15 bottles of hydrogen, each of which provides approximately two hours of energy at full capacity.
Everything required to generate 48V DC, 120V AC, or 240V AC is provided, as is the option to absorb hydrogen from external sources such as trailers or supply tanks to prolong power indefinitely if necessary. The HFC is compact and readily transportable on a typical fifth-wheel utility trailer, ensuring a broad range of applications and usability. Additionally, heat generated during the power generation process can be recovered for alternative usage.
The first of these units was finished in early November and has since been delivered to ATCO Power’s Nisku, Alberta, facility, where it will be tested for a year as an emergency power source.
“ATCO is committed to ensuring that our customers have access to reliable, affordable, and sustainable energy as we enable the transition to a net-zero emissions future,” said Lance Radke, VP of Customer Experience and Initiatives. “Importantly, this means long-term thinking by exploring new and innovative energy solutions and technologies and ATCO is excited to participate in this one-year pilot study with the ONEC Hydrogen Fuel Cell Module Building.”
The HFC is only one example of ONEC’s journey into renewable energy as an enterprise committed to agility, innovation, and continual development. ONEC is also involved in a variety of solar and wind energy initiatives across the country, assisting clients in meeting the Canadian government’s national net-zero emission goals for their sites.
“Our team is making real positive impacts through the new innovations we are co-developing with our clients and suppliers. Hydrogen fuel cells for backup power is one of these real impact solutions,” affirmed Denis Wiart, CEO of ONEC Group of Companies. “We see Alberta as being a critical player in the energy transition, and ONEC being a very active participant.”
