One of the two new stands would be used for next-generation stationary fuel cells, which would be used in buildings and similar sites, Peg Hashem, a UTC Power spokeswoman, said Tuesday.

The other would be used to test transportation fuel cells, such as those used in cars or buses, she added.

Fuel cells run primarily on hydrogen, rather than gasoline, and use a chemical reaction to produce power, with very little pollution.

The company needs the permits because of the potential for hydrogen discharge, Hashem said. DEP permits are needed any time there is a chance for an air emission other than carbon dioxide, water, oxygen, or nitrogen.

It takes about five or six months for permit approval, Hashem said. Provided there are no holdups, UTC Power hopes to have the new test stands operational in August.

UTC Power has dozens of test stands at its facilities now, Hashem said.

Since 1966, UTC Power has provided fuel cell plants for every manned U.S. space flight, which generated electrical power and drinking water, according to company publications. It also provides them for next-generation automobile engines and auxiliary units for Hyundai, Nissan, BMW, and others. They are also used in transit buses and fleet vehicles to make those zero-emission vehicles, according to those publications.

The cells also provide power to buildings and hot water for heating systems.

UTC Power is a subsidiary of Hartford-based United Technologies Corp.