FuelCell Energy Inc. Announces Groundbreaking Electrolyzer Testing at Idaho National Laboratory

The initiative, partially funded by a 2020 award from the U.S. Department of Energy’s Office of Nuclear Energy, aims to explore how hydrogen production can enhance the profitability of nuclear plants. The study will assess the feasibility of switching between electricity generation and hydrogen creation, thereby diversifying the operational capabilities of these facilities.

FuelCell Energy's SOEC system is set to undergo testing as the largest electrolyzer ever studied at INL, with the goal of demonstrating its potential to drastically cut the costs associated with clean hydrogen production. The system is designed to convert 100% of the electricity and water it receives into zero-carbon hydrogen—a critical factor in the transition to cleaner energy sources.

During the testing phase, the electrolyzer is expected to produce approximately 150 kilograms of hydrogen per day using 250 kilowatts of electricity sourced from nuclear energy. This process simulates a scenario in which the electrolyzer operates at 100% efficiency, utilizing waste heat from the nuclear power plant—a notable advancement from previous electrolysis tests conducted at INL.

The electrolyzer in question is distinguished from earlier INL projects due to its fully integrated solid oxide electrolyzer system design. This innovative configuration represents a significant leap in the technology’s capabilities, aligning with the broader push for sustainable energy solutions.

FuelCell Energy’s President and CEO, Jason Few, emphasized the strategic importance of pairing the company’s electrolyzer technology with nuclear power plants. He stated, “Nuclear energy is a baseload power source that when paired with FuelCell Energy’s electrolyzer can ensure that every kilowatt of power is converted into a usable or stored energy resource.” This perspective underscores the company’s commitment to an "all-of-the-above" energy strategy designed to address the evolving demands of the electric infrastructure.

The electrolyzer developed by FuelCell Energy performs electrolysis, a process that splits water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen using electricity. This method allows for long-term hydrogen storage and transport, making renewable energy sources like wind, solar, and nuclear available on demand.

A key feature of FuelCell Energy’s electrolyzer is its ability to achieve 100% efficiency when augmented with external heat, such as that generated by a nuclear reactor. This breakthrough could reduce hydrogen production costs by up to 30%, potentially overcoming economic barriers to the wider adoption of hydrogen as a clean energy source.

The testing at INL will explore practical use cases, including the integration of thermal energy from nuclear reactors and the dynamics of the electrical grid. The system will not only be a subject of study but will also serve as a demonstration for global energy industry members visiting INL. These stakeholders will have the opportunity to learn about the synergistic potential of nuclear energy and clean hydrogen production.

Furthermore, the hydrogen generated during this testing phase will be utilized for ongoing research at INL, focusing on areas such as e-chemical synthesis, hydrogen turbine co-firing for power generation, and heavy-duty vehicle refueling.

In closing, Jason Few encapsulated the essence of FuelCell Energy's mission: “Energy innovation that drives down costs, emissions, and leverages all the above energy sources we have today is smart energy and a win-win.” The successful testing of the electrolyzer at INL could lead to significant advancements in both nuclear and fuel cell hydrogen technologies, contributing to a more sustainable and abundant energy future.

FuelCell Energy continues to position itself as a leader in clean energy technology, with over 450 patents and more than two decades of commercial operation in the field. As the world increasingly looks for solutions to its energy challenges, FuelCell Energy stands poised to play a crucial role in shaping the landscape of clean energy production.

For further information about FuelCell Energy's groundbreaking technology, visit fuelcellenergy.com.

For inquiries, investors can reach out to ir@fce.com or call 203.205.2491. Media representatives can contact kblomquist@fce.com or call 203.546.5844.