AFC Energy fuel cell technology to power renewable plant

AFC Energy, a developer of alkaline fuel cell technology for industrial application, has announced that its alkaline fuel cells are being considered for use in a new 49MW renewable plant in Tees Valley.

The clean energy plant will use advanced gasification technology to convert waste to electricity. The scheme, which is being led by Air Products, an industrial gas supplier, will produce enough power for up to 50,000 homes in the region, the company said.

The plant will reportedly offer the northeast an environmentallyfriendly energy solution by converting non-recyclable waste into clean electricity. The gasification process produces hydrogen which can be used as a feed stock for AFC Energy's fuel cell technology, which produces electricity at low-cost and high efficiency.

The project will potentially create up to 50 permanent jobs, in addition to 500 to 700 jobs during its three-year construction period. The site, owned by Teesside-based Impetus Waste Management, has been designated as a New Energy and Technology Business Park, the company added.

Ian Balchin, CEO of AFC Energy, said: "AFC Energy is delighted to be to be working with our partners Waste2tricity on this pioneering project in Tees Valley. The plant will allow us to demonstrate how our clean and costeffective technology can support the conversion of waste into energy. It is another exciting example of the role fuel cells will play in a low carbon future."