IdaTech announces greener fuel cell fuel

IdaTech plc announced Thursday the availability of a new renewable fuel source made from bio-methanol to power its fuel cell products.

The Bend-based company, which sells back-up power fuel cells to telecommunications companies, is offering a new blend of bio-methanol and water that customers will be able to use to operate their IdaTech fuel cells.

Portland-based Brenntag Pacific Inc. is blending the fuel to IdaTech's specifications. The bio-methanol is produced by BioMCN in the Netherlands using a residue from biodiesel production.

The fuel is packaged in 55-gallon drums. By using the greener fuel, IdaTech's customers will be positioned to take advantage of incentives for renewable energy, said Kathy Fosberg, IdaTech's marketing communications director.

IdaTech customers include major telecommunications companies. The fuel cells are especially popular in regions such as Latin America and Asia where the grid is less stable and backup power is necessary. The fuel cells generally replace diesel-powered generators.

IdaTech had $4.4 million in revenue last year. Last October, the company acquired assets of two Plug Power fuel cell line for $5 million.

Source: Christina Williams, Sustainable Business Oregon