FuelCellsWorks

LOS ANGELES — Southern California Gas Co. (SoCalGas) today announced it has invested $1 million in ClearEdge Power, an Oregon fuel cell manufacturer. The investment is a strategic addition to the utility company’s growing clean energy portfolio.

“Investing in ClearEdge Power advances our leadership in sustainable energy development which offers our customers an additional technology choice that can help reduce their energy bill and carbon footprint,” said Hal Snyder, vice president of customer solutions at SoCalGas. “Fuel cells are among a number of green energy technologies that we are helping to develop through innovative research projects and equity investments that will benefit our customers and the market.”

SoCalGas has a long history with fuel cells, from funding research and demonstrations of fuel cells starting in the 1970s, to co-founding the National Fuel Cell Research Center at UC Irvine. SoCalGas also has been heavily involved in testing and demonstrating current fuel cells from a variety of companies, and has invested in fuel cell manufacturers to help accelerate product development.

The ClearEdge5 combined heat and power (CHP) fuel cell reduces carbon emissions by one-third and other typical pollutants, such as volatile organic compounds, ash and particulates, to trace levels, according to ClearEdge Power officials. It also enables homeowners and business owners to produce power right at the point of use, reducing a customer’s dependence on the grid.

“SoCalGas is a leader in the push for new innovative green technologies, and we are pleased that our company is able to help move that effort forward,” said ClearEdge Power President and CEO Russell Ford. “Though we are bringing our energy platform to other states later this year, California is leading the country in green initiatives, which makes it the clear priority. Californians, like SoCalGas customers, really need a better option for on-site power generation using clean natural gas, and with the ClearEdge5 fuel cell, they get that option.”

According to the Energy Information Administration (EIA), more than 45 percent of the electricity Americans consume today comes from burning coal – a finite, toxic resource. The EIA predicts that world demand for electricity will increase by 49 percent within the next 20 years.  Fuel cells offer customers an opportunity to generate their own electricity on-site using a clean and highly efficient technology.

Also, according to a recent report by business intelligence provider IntertechPira, entitled “The Future of Clean Technologies,” the clean tech sector is poised to expand more than 250 percent by 2019. Fuel cells are expected to increase 10 fold, from $2 billion to $20 billion, in the same period.

Although fuel cells were invented in 1839, the technology is only now becoming competitive with other power generation technologies. Fuel cells have long been used to power NASA manned-spacecraft, like the Apollo program.

Fuel cells work by converting natural gas energy into useable electricity. Unlike traditional electric power plants, which use combustion technology, fuel cells generate electricity through an electrochemical process from which no particulate matter, nitrogen oxides or sulfur oxides are produced. A significant percentage of heat produced by fuel cells can be captured and used to provide heating and hot water.

About ClearEdge Power

ClearEdge Power is a global, privately held, technology company leading the way for smarter, cleaner on-site energy systems focused on commercial, institutional and residential buildings. The company designs, manufactures and markets the ClearEdge5 system, a unique, proven fuel cell appliance that cleanly converts natural gas to electricity and heat, offering both significant financial and energy savings, as well as a greatly reduced impact on the global environment. The ClearEdge Power corporate management systems are certified to ISO 9001 and ISO 14001. For more information, please visit http://www.clearedgepower.com.

About Southern California Gas Company

Southern California Gas Co. (SoCalGas) has been delivering clean, safe and reliable natural gas to its customers for more than 140 years. It is the nation’s largest natural gas distribution utility, providing safe and reliable energy to 20.9 million consumers through nearly 5.8 million meters in more than 500 communities. The company’s service territory encompasses approximately 20,000 square miles throughout Central and Southern California, from Visalia to the Mexican border. Southern California Gas Co. is a regulated subsidiary of Sempra Energy (NYSE: SRE). Sempra Energy, based in San Diego, is a Fortune 500 energy services holding company.  To learn more, go to socalgas.com.

Delivery of Turn Key Hydrogen Fueling Station for Both Land and Sea Transport

MISSISSAUGA, Ontario– Hydrogenics Corporation (Nasdaq:HYGS) (TSX:HYG), a leading developer and manufacturer of hydrogen generation and fuel cell products, today announced the award of a complete electrolysis based hydrogen fueling station capable of producing 65 kilograms of hydrogen per day. The fueling station will be located at Golden Horn, the historic inlet of the Bosphorus, in Istanbul, Turkey and be used for both land and sea transportation applications.

The award was made by The International Centre for Hydrogen Energy Technologies (ICHET), a project of the United Nations Industrial Development Organization (UNIDO), founded in Istanbul in 2004 and supported by the Turkish Ministry of Energy and Natural Resources. ICHET seeks to initiate projects in the Developing World that establish or enhance hydrogen production from indigenous — and preferably renewable — energy resources so that hydrogen can take a far more important role in the satisfaction of local energy needs. Additional information about ICHET and UNIDO can be found at www.unido-ichet.org.

“We are pleased to have been awarded Turkey’s first hydrogen fueling station in a competitive tendering process that demonstrated Hydrogenics’ ability to respond to the increase in market interest for Hydrogen Fueling Stations in Europe. Our ability to deliver a complete offering addressing quality, safety and economic requirements further demonstrates that Hydrogenics has the expertise, people and technology to manufacture, install and commission complete hydrogen fueling stations throughout the world, said Daryl Wilson, Hydrogenics President and CEO.

ABOUT HYDROGENICS

Hydrogenics Corporation (www.hydrogenics.com) is a globally recognized developer and provider of hydrogen generation and fuel cell products and services, serving the growing industrial and clean energy markets of today and tomorrow. Based in Mississauga, Ontario, Canada, Hydrogenics has operations in North America and Europe.

By Eliminating Battery Infrastructure, Coca-Cola Will Improve Energy Efficiency and Recover More Than 2,000 Sq Ft of Facility Space

LATHAM, N.Y.– Plug Power Inc. (Nasdaq:PLUG) and Coca-Cola Refreshments USA (NYSE:KO) announced plans for a new fleet of GenDrive-powered Caterpillar lift trucks at Coca-Cola’s 250,000 sq. ft. bottling and distribution center in San Leandro, CA.

The GenDrive fleet at Coca-Cola’s facility will include 37 Class-1 sit down counterbalanced trucks. Previously using lead-acid batteries as a power solution, Coca-Cola is making the transition to GenDrive to take advantage of the increased productivity and improved space utilization offered by the technology.

By removing the infrastructure associated with the lead-acid battery charging, changing and maintenance, Coca-Cola will recover more than 2,000 square feet of facility space to use for other business operations. At the same time, electrical consumption will be reduced by an estimated 1.6 million kwh/year. These benefits will help Coca-Cola realize a return on investment and a 15% carbon reduction goal across the business.

“At Coca-Cola, we consider sustainability a core component to everything we do. Our goal is to be the beverage industry leader in energy conservation and climate protection,” said Brian P. Kelly, Product Supply Leader, Coca-Cola Refreshments. “Using Plug Power Fuel Cells for our fleet in the San Leandro facility is an example of this commitment. This innovative use of technology will help us reduce our carbon emissions, streamline our operations and work towards our aggressive environmental goals.”

“This is the second site in the Coca-Cola system to convert an existing lift truck fleet to GenDrive fuel cells,” said Andy Marsh, CEO at Plug Power. “It’s evidenced through these repeat customers the real value of the GenDrive solution. Hydrogen fuel cells are competing with the incumbent power sources and winning because they provide the most benefit for the organization. It’s a simple business decision.”

Plug Power received a purchase order from Coca-Cola in November, 2010 and shipped all 37 units to the customer in December, 2010.

―Development of Hydrogen Supply Infrastructure Key―

Toyota Motor Corporation (TMC), Nissan Motor Company, Ltd., Honda Motor Company, Ltd., JX Nippon Oil & Energy Corporation, Idemitsu Kosan Company, Ltd., Iwatani Corporation, Osaka Gas Company, Ltd., Cosmo Oil Company, Ltd., Saibu Gas Company, Ltd., Showa Shell Sekiyu K.K., Taiyo Nippon Sanso Corporation, Tokyo Gas Company, Ltd. and Toho Gas, Company, Ltd. jointly announce the following details regarding the launch of mass-produced fuel-cell vehicles (FCVs)—one of a number of potential next-generation vehicles—in the Japanese market in 2015 and the development of the hydrogen supply infrastructure necessary for the successful adoption of the vehicles.

^*As a specific initiative in the immediate future, the companies plan to approach local governments and other concerned parties to discuss strategies for creating initial consumer demand for FCVs and for the optimal placement of hydrogen fueling stations, targeting Japan’s four major metropolitan areas (Tokyo, Nagoya, Osaka and Fukuoka).

Takeshi Uchiyamada, executive vice president for research and product development of Toyota Motor Corp. Photographer: Kimimasa Mayama/Bloomberg

Takeshi Uchiyamada, executive vice president of Toyota Motor Corp., demonstrates charging the battery of the company’s iQ-based prototype electric vehicle (EV) during a news conference in Tokyo, Japan. Photographer: Kimimasa Mayama/Bloomberg

Toyota Motor Corp., the world’s largest seller of hybrid vehicles, said it’s on schedule to sell hydrogen cars by 2015 or sooner in California, Japan and Germany as an alternative to battery-powered models coming to market.

Toyota, which also aims to sell plug-in hybrid and battery- only autos in 2012, is overcoming the cost and technical hurdles that have kept hydrogen fuel-cell cars from being sold to retail customers, said Takeshi Uchiyamada, Toyota’s executive vice president for research and product development. The carmaker has cut the cost to make hydrogen models to less than $100,000 and aims to halve that price by the time sales begin, he said.

“I have high expectations for fuel-cell vehicles as a candidate for next-generation cars,” Uchiyamada said this week in an interview at the North American International Auto Show in Detroit. “Over the past several years, we’ve seen many of the outstanding technical issues solved.”

Enthusiasm a decade ago for hydrogen cars faded because of costs estimated by some manufacturers at about $1 million a vehicle, as well as a lack of fueling stations. While Nissan Motor Co.’s battery-powered Leaf and General Motors Co.’s plug- in Volt target drivers who want to use little or no gasoline, Toyota, Honda Motor Co., Daimler AG, Hyundai Motor Co., GM and Nissan continue developing hydrogen cars, which offer greater range and faster refueling.

Comparable Cruising Distance

“When it comes to fuel-cell cars, the cruising distance is almost comparable to conventional gasoline-engine cars,” Uchiyamada said. Toyota’s cost reductions for the models come from improvements in making high-pressure hydrogen tanks and fuel-cell stacks, he said.

Separately, Toyota and 12 other Japanese companies including Honda, Nissan and JX Nippon Oil & Energy Corp. plan to build 100 hydrogen fueling stations in the Asian nation by 2015, according to a statement on Toyota’s website.

Toyota rose 1 percent to close at 3,535 yen in Tokyo trading today. The stock declined 17 percent in 2010.

Fuel cells, layers of plastic film coated with platinum sandwiched between metal plates, make electricity in a chemical process combining hydrogen and oxygen. Fuel-cell vehicles share components such as electric motors and power controls with battery-only models, Uchiyamada said.

FXC Clarity

Honda has leased FCX Clarity hydrogen sedans to Los Angeles area drivers since 2008, and Daimler began a similar California program for its Mercedes-Benz F-Cell hatchback last year.

Toyota will initially focus on selling hydrogen models in California, Japan and Germany, which have the most developed fueling infrastructure.

“We’d like to gradually expand regionally to a global basis,” Uchiyamada said.

Since the program initially will focus on large urban markets, “all we need is a small number of stations,” he said.

Toyota’s first hydrogen cars for retail buyers “will arrive in 2015 or sooner,” Akio Toyoda, the company’s president, said Jan. 10 in Detroit. “Over the years customers will choose which technology is best for their needs.”

Toyota is still working on details of how it will market hydrogen vehicles and hasn’t decided whether the initial model will be sold under the Toyota brand or as luxury Lexus vehicle, considering a likely retail price of about $50,000, he said.

“We’ll be able to talk about performance specifications and other details reasonably soon,” Uchiyamada said without elaborating.

The Toyota City, Japan-based automaker’s U.S. sales unit is in Torrance, California.

To contact the reporter on this story: Alan Ohnsman in Los Angeles at aohnsman@bloomberg.net

To contact the editor responsible for this story: Kae Inoue in Tokyo at kinoue@bloomberg.net

Carlo Dambra

A new application of Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell (MCFC) has been developed by the European-funded MC WAP research project to be eventually used as an alternative power supply for ships. This will be cleaner and avoid the pollution of the marine diesel engines which currently provide the power in the vast majority of the world’s ships.

The research into molten carbonate fuel cells has it origins as early as the 1930s, Emil Baur and H.Preis in Switzerland experimented with high-temperature, solid oxide electrolytes. At the initial stages the research was applicable to both molten carbonate and solid oxide fuel cells which are both high-temperature devices. The technical history of both cells seems to follow a similar line of research. A divergence in the development appeared in the late 1950s. From then on, the Molten Carbonate Fuel Cell (MCFC) was developed from a purely experimental prototype to today’s practical demonstrator.

Molten carbonate fuel cells demand very high operating temperatures (600°C and above) and most applications for this kind of cell are limited to large, stationary power plants. The envisaged initial application is associated with waste heat, industrial processing, and in steam turbines to generate more electricity.

The MC WAP project has developed a molten carbon fuel cell which uses hydrogen obtained from a system that converts diesel oil into a hydrogen-rich gas, and air coming from the compressor of a microturbine. The reaction produces electricity and heat, without combustion.

To operate the MCFC on board a ship, researchers of the MC-WAP project have developed two major elements: The Fuel Processor Module and the Fuel Cells Module. The Fuel Cells Module is a chemical plant. It is fed from one side by compressed air and from the other side by a gas called syngas (produced from diesel) by the Fuel Processor Module. This gas is currently being tested in Germany, at the University of Freiberg. The chemical reaction between air and syngas then generates electricity.

The energy produced by the current system, corresponds to about 250 kilowatts, and represents one production unit of reserve energy that can power the essential systems on board, such as the control systems, communication, lighting and main auxiliary systems. Although at this time it will not power the propulsion, it will be able to contribute to it in some cases.

No combustion means fewer greenhouse gas emissions from the many tourist and cargo ships that carry the millions of people and goods around the coasts of Europe and the world. The cleaner ship exhausts are better for the environment and will help the operators to meet the new green legislation.

Cleaning the exhausts involves removing the traces of sulphur and carbon di-oxide that remain after normal combustion, resulting in clean exhaust gases. The system releases virtually no harmful substances: the fuel is transformed into synthetic gas which is then used in the fuel cell, without creating pollution. Furthermore the lack of moving parts in the MCFC will reduce the overall ship vibrations which will result in a more comfortable journey for the passengers.

By JAMES PALEN, The Daily Transcript

Those in the alternative fuels industry interested in millions of dollars in federal grant money to support fuel cell research have just weeks left to submit letters of intent to the U.S. Department of Energy.

In December, the DOE announced it is accepting applications for a total of up to $74 million in support of research and development of clean, reliable fuel cells for stationary and transportation applications.

The grants include up to $65 million over three years to fund continued research and development on fuel cell components, improving durability and increasing the efficiency of fuel cell systems. Although applications are not due until March 3, a letter of intent to apply must be submitted by Jan. 28.

Up to an additional $9 million to conduct independent cost analyses, to both assess the progress of the technology under current research initiatives and help guide future fuel cell and hydrogen storage efforts, is also being awarded. The application deadline for the $9 million is Feb. 18.

More information and application requirements and instructions can be found at FedConnect.net by searching Funding Opportunity Announcement DE-FOA-0000360.

Berlin — Portable communication devices are extremely popular but mobile technology has its limits as batteries are quickly exhausted. Scientists have spent years trying to develop alternatives to lithium ion batteries with much hope being placed on fuel cells.

After many setbacks in development a small firm from Silicon Valley is showing that fuel cells may indeed be the way forward.

In contrast to conventional lithium ion batteries, fuel cells cannot store a charge, but they do offer many other advantages. Fuel cells are easier and cheaper to make and you don’t need a wall outlet to fill them up. Fuel cells use gases such as methanol or hydrogen to source their power and they are also a lot more environmentally friendly than normal mobile batteries.

Fuel cells generate electricity in a chemical reaction where hydrogen or methanol are combined with oxygen. Electrical energy is released during the process which can be used to power a device.

Along with electronics companies such as Toshiba and Samsung, Germany’s Fraunhofer Institute is trying to develop new types of fuel cells that could make the technology more suited to portable consumer products. But after many ambitious research projects, the euphoria has cooled somewhat, at least when it comes to notebook makers.

Only a few years ago it appeared a major breakthrough was on the horizon. In 2007 Samsung created a prototype notebook powered by a methanol-fueled cell. The makers said it could power the notebook for up to a month. But the technology never made it into the shops and Samsung is not prepared to say if it has managed to develop the prototype further.

Many unsolved problems and technical issues have prevented fuel cell-powered mobile devices from launching on the consumer market. “Electronics manufacturers have become more careful in their announcements,” says Ulf Groos from the Fraunhofer Institute. Failure to live up to expectations has happened too frequently but no-one has given up on fuel cells because they offer so many advantages compared to batteries.

One problem that has yet to be solved is the heat generated by fuel cells. Reducing fuel cell size is also an issue, according to Groos. “We have not yet managed to integrate them into the devices.” Fuel cells are still too large to fit into small mobile devices.

A few years ago Toshiba presented a fuel cell which was as big as the notebook it powered. Joerg Wirtgen, an editor with German computer magazine c’t, does not believe a major breakthrough will happen any time soon. “It will probably take at least another five years before we have products that are fit for the market.”

In the meantime Wirtgen thinks lithium ion batteries, which can fit into very flat notebooks such as Apple’s Macbook Air, will continue to hold their own. Lithium ion batteries are quite expensive to make but they are much better at being shaped to fit devices than conventional batteries.

Researchers are working on alternatives to integrated batteries that would lead to external fuel cell charging stations. A year ago Toshiba presented a mobile methanol fuel cell charger that can recharge a notebook over a USB cable. The device is called the Dynario and about 3,000 were put on the market as part of a test run but nothing has been heard since.

Groos believes that fuel cells will have limited uses if developers fail to integrate them into mobile devices. Experts think there will be a very small market for external fuel cell chargers. “External solutions are better suited to arctic-like expeditions where you spend weeks away from a power socket,” says Wirtgen.

But in mid-November a small company from California reinvigorated the debate around fuel cells when Lilliputian Systems announced that it will launch its first products. The start-up company says it has developed a technology based on silicon and which uses a recyclable fuel cell cartridge.

Compared to lithium ion batteries the new environmentally-friendly fuel cell will supply between five and 10 times more power, according to Lilliputian Systems. The new fuel cell will be suitable both as an external charger as well as an integrated power supply for a notebook, according to its designers.

Chipmaker Intel for its part is treating the announcement seriously and has taken a stake in Lilliputian Systems, injecting capital into the company.

Author : Renate Grimming

The Energy and Environmental Research Center at the University of North Dakota will release its first full-length documentary focused on hydrogen and fuel cells and the many activities taking place around the country to further the hydrogen economy.

“Hydrogen: Nature’s Fuel,” will premiere region-wide at 9 tonight on Prairie Public Television, Fargo (KFME), Channel 13.

The hourlong documentary tells the story of hydrogen through a series of interviews from those working on hydrogen technologies. The program explains every step of the process, including how hydrogen is created, purified, transported and dispensed, and how it is used in fuel cell vehicles and other end uses.

IdaTech plc (’IdaTech’ or the ‘Company’) (AIM IDA.L), a global leader in the development and manufacture of clean and reliable PEM fuel cell products for critical backup power markets, today provides a product and trading update for 2010. The Company will announce its preliminary results for the year ended 31 December 2010 in late March 2011.

Successful New Product Shipments

IdaTech commenced shipments of its new generation methanol/water fueled product, the ElectraGen^TM ME, in December.   This is an exciting and important development for IdaTech as it provides a key foundation in its Path to Profitability Strategy.  This family of products incorporates substantial cost and performance improvements which can be sold profitably in significantly higher volumes than previous generation products. These improvements offer customers a compelling value proposition against diesel generators whilst yielding positive  margins for IdaTech.

Trading Update

During 2010, IdaTech sold over 350 systems 280 of which were sold at a positive gross contribution margin (2009 9 units).  During 2009 445 systems were sold, which included 300 loss making sales to ACME Telepower for the Indian market.  IdaTech’s next generation systems, the ElectraGen^TM H2 and the ElectraGen^TM ME, accounted for 280 of the 2010 unit sales.  The remainder of the sales consisted of now discontinued, earlier generations of its products.  The order pipeline at the end of the year was $1.6 million, representing 84 units, primarily all higher value reformed systems (2009 $0.8 million or 108 hydrogen systems).

Revenue from product sales for the year was $4.1 million with  an improved gross margin attributable to product sales over 2009.  Revenue for 2009 was $4.5 million.   2010 was, as expected, the transition year from previous generation, loss making systems to new generation, profitable products.  During the year, IdaTech received orders for over 70 ElectraGen^TMME systems, 20 of which were shipped before the end of the year.  The orders included a number of single unit orders for customer testing and validation, the pre-cursor to larger orders as well as two large commercial orders.

Overheads are expected to be lower than in 2009.  This reduction, coupled with the improvement in product margin, reduced the cash usage (excluding the acquisition of the LPG off grid & backup power stationary product lines of Plug Power Inc) to $22 million (2009 $24.8 million).

LPG Off Grid & Backup Power Stationary Product Lines of Plug Power Inc. (”Plug”)

In October 2010, IdaTech completed the purchase of Plug’s off grid Liquid Petroleum fueled product line, including most of the assets of the business and license to all relevant intellectual property for a total consideration of $5 million.  The Company believes that by combining IdaTech’s technical knowhow and telecommunications market position together with a decade of Plug’s investment and development into the product, IdaTech can access an estimated $1 billion market for telecommunications power generation in areas where there is no electric grid service.  The acquisition was funded by the Investec Group through an extension to the existing credit line, in addition to the already committed funding.

Outlook

With the launch of the ElectraGen^TM ME, the Company believes demand will increase over the next year.  The rate of this increase will be dictated by the speed with which customers certify the new products, but initial signs remain encouraging.  Additionally, with the transition from previous generation products to new, profitable ones, the Company expects gross margin to continue to improve.

For further information please contact:

About IdaTech

IdaTech plc is an advanced fuel cell products company which is operationally headquartered in Bend, Oregon, USA and is listed on AIM with the ticker code IDA.  IdaTech designs, develops, and manufactures extended run backup power fuel cell products for Telecom applications requiring up to 15 kW of backup power. IdaTech’s unique PEM fuel cell technology provides solutions for a wide range of applications to directly support efforts towards sustainable energy.  IdaTech’s portfolio of industry-certified fuel cell products are based on the company’s fuel processing, purification and fuel cell system integration capabilities. With the support of strategic partners and customers, the company’s extended run backup power products are being deployed worldwide for stationary applications.

Global Observer, AeroVironment's Extreme Endurance Unmanned Aircraft System, Achieves Historic First Hydrogen-Powered Flight (Photo: Business Wire)

AeroVironment, Inc. (AV) (NASDAQ:AVAV) today announced that the Global Observer™ unmanned aircraft system has successfully completed its historic first flight powered by the aircraft’s hydrogen-fueled propulsion system at Edwards Air Force Base (EAFB) in California. This milestone marks the beginning of high altitude, long endurance flight testing for the demonstration and operational utility phase of the Joint Capability Technology Demonstration (JCTD) program.

“Global Observer has moved quickly from development and testing toward demonstrating mission-ready, affordable persistence,” said Tim Conver, AV chairman and chief executive officer. “Similar to a satellite, Global Observer is the first system designed to provide a 24/7/365 unblinking eye and continuous communications link over any location on the earth’s surface for as long as needed. The joint AV and U.S. government team developed Global Observer to meet today’s urgent requirements for persistence and to enable the development of much more cost-effective solutions for the future. The speed with which we have achieved this milestone reflects the benefits of an effective government-industry partnership.”

Because of its extreme endurance and range, Global Observer can be based out-of-theater, which will further reduce operating costs and local air traffic congestion while significantly reducing risk to operational personnel. AV plans to make Global Observer systems available for procurement and for operation as a turnkey service to provide communications and remote imaging in a manner similar to satellite services, but at a much lower cost.

The hydrogen-powered flight lasted for four hours and reached an altitude of 5,000 feet above sea level over the United States Air Force Flight Test Center at EAFB. This first flight follows the successful battery-powered flight test phase of the demonstration program that took place during the months of August and September.

The flight test team will now systematically expand the altitude and duration of test flights to validate the aircraft’s high-altitude, long endurance performance. These flights will include the Air Force’s Joint Aerial Layer Network (JALN) Tactical Communications Suite (TCS) payload. The JALN TCS provides persistent, IP-based aerial communications infrastructure that extends communications from a Global Observer aircraft positioned at 65,000 feet above sea level over a wide area. The joint operational utility of the Global Observer system will also be assessed during this flight test series for future U.S. Government, civil, and military uses.

About Global Observer

With 20 years of experience developing stratospheric, long-endurance unmanned aircraft systems (UAS), AV is developing Global Observer to operate as a “stratospheric geosynchronous satellite system” with regional coverage and minimal signal delay. Two Global Observer aircraft, each flying for up to a week at a time, will alternate coverage over any area on the earth, providing a seamless, persistent platform for high value missions such as communications relay, remote sensing, long-term surveillance and border patrol. Offering greater flexibility than a satellite and significantly longer duration than conventional manned and unmanned aircraft, Global Observer is designed to provide critical new capabilities in a reliable and more affordable manner, all while consuming no fossil fuels and emitting no carbon emissions.

In addition to flying above weather and above other conventional airplanes, operation at 55,000 to 65,000 altitude enables sensor payloads on the aircraft to view a significantly larger area on the surface of the earth than conventional, lower flying aircraft. Equipped with payloads that are readily available today, a two Global Observer system would provide persistent satellite-like coverage over any location on the globe at a fraction of the cost of satellites.

AV received the contract for developing and demonstrating Global Observer as a JCTD program in September 2007. Six U.S. government agencies have provided more than $140 million in funding for the program.

About AeroVironment, Inc. (AV)

AV is a technology solutions provider that designs, develops, produces and supports an advanced portfolio of Unmanned Aircraft Systems (UAS) and electric transportation solutions. Agencies of the U.S. Department of Defense and allied military services use the company’s battery-powered, hand-launched unmanned aircraft systems extensively to provide situational awareness to tactical operating units through real-time, airborne reconnaissance, surveillance and communication. Switchblade is a small UAS designed to provide a rapid, lethal, pinpoint precision strike capability with minimal collateral damage. AV’s electric transportation solutions include a comprehensive suite of electric vehicle (EV) charging systems and installation services for consumers, automakers, utilities and government agencies, power cycling and test systems for EV developers and industrial electric vehicle charging systems for commercial fleets. More information about AV is available at www.avinc.com.

LAS VEGAS–Multiquip, a diverse manufacturer and supplier of world class quality products and solutions, introduces to the industry the first hydrogen fuel cell powered light tower, part of a planned series of hydrogen fuel cell powered products. Innovative by design, the light tower is environmentally friendly, fuel efficient, virtually pollution-free, allowing it to be operated indoors and can be operated for up to 50 hours at a noise level of 43 decibels at 23 feet.

The light tower uses innovative plasma light technology, which is filament-free, producing a clean, natural light. The plasma light bulb produces 22,000 lumens with extremely high efficiency, consuming only 255 watts with a life expectancy of up to 50,000 hours.

“We are very excited to be introducing the hydrogen powered light tower,” said Torsten Erbel, vice president product management, engineering and customer support for Multiquip.

“The implications of the product’s technology beyond lighting are tremendous. It’s reliable due to the lack of moving parts; durable; does not contaminate due to fuel spills; there is very low maintenance; and it is user-friendly, using an automotive-style fuel nozzle.”

Using a process discovered more than 150 years ago, fuel cells began supplying electric power for spacecrafts in the 1960s and were pursued for commercial use in the 1970s. Fuel cells are an alternative to the internal combustion engine with an energy efficiency of 50+%, while on average, internal combustion engines convert only 20%.

Prototypes of the light tower have been and will be used by the California Department of Transportation, film and entertainment companies at high profile media events and by NASA during the upcoming shuttle launch.

The Multiquip hydrogen fuel cell powered light tower will be on display at World of Concrete in Las Vegas, January 18-21 in booth # C4813.

Products will be available in Q2 2011. Pricing for the units will be provided by quote only, due to the availability of energy and tax credits, which vary from state-to-state as well as multiple configuration options.

About Multiquip

Founded in 1973, Multiquip is one of the largest, most diversified manufacturers and suppliers of world class quality products and solutions for the construction, telecom, government, non-commercial, entertainment, and oil and gas exploration markets. Multiquip’s comprehensive product portfolio encompasses light to medium construction equipment, power generators and lighting. Servicing customers worldwide, Multiquip distributes its products in more than 70 countries through thousands of authorized distribution partners. For more information, visit www.multiquip.com.

LIVERMORE, CA– UltraCell Corporation (”UltraCell”), a pioneer in advanced Reformed Methanol Micro Fuel Cell (RMFC) technology, was awarded a contract from the U.S. Army Communications-Electronics Research, Development, and Engineering Center (CERDEC) to advance a fuel cell system for the Coalition Warfare Program (CWP). The contract award is valued at $999,000 USD.

Under the contract, UltraCell engineers will leverage a 150-watt (150W) fuel cell system prototype, originally developed for the United Kingdom Ministry of Defence (MOD) Defence Science and Technology Laboratory (DSTL) as part of the UK’s Reducing the Burden on the Dismounted Soldier (RBDS) Capability Vision Program. UltraCell will apply its extensive expertise and resources to mature the new prototype system to a Technology Readiness Level (TRL) of 7.

“We are pleased to be part of a program that coordinates soldier power requirements among NATO partners,” says Keith Scott, Chief Executive Officer, UltraCell Corporation. “This contract marks the continuation of our landmark work with the UK MOD over the past year on the innovative, 150W fuel cell system prototype.”

UltraCell’s efforts will center on the advanced development of an interoperable, fuel cell power source capable of delivering 150W suitable for a wide variety of military applications. The system will use RMFC technology to convert methanol fuel into electricity, to charge batteries and power even the most energy-hungry electronics devices. The RMFC solution offers a 50% weight savings for long missions and reduced environmental impact when compared to traditional batteries.

About UltraCell
UltraCell Corporation, a leading producer of fuel cells and fuel cell systems, is the first company to commercialize Reformed Methanol Micro Fuel Cell technology to provide clean, renewable energy to power portable electronics. The company develops micro fuel cell technologies and intellectual property. Its patented, award-winning XX25™ and XX55™ portable fuel cell systems are designed for military and commercial industrial use. For more information about UltraCell, visit http://www.ultracellpower.com/.

Mercedes-Benz B-Class F-CELL in the U.S. With the B-Class F-CELL, Mercedes-Benz launch its first fuel cell-powered electric car produced under series production in the U.S. In total around 70 of these environmentally friendly cars will be operating on a daily basis in California.

Detroit – Just ahead of the 125th birthday of the automobile on January 29, its inventor is setting further groundbreaking accents in the field of electromobility. At the North American International Auto Show, Mercedes-Benz today announced its decision to put the SLS AMG E-CELL into series production. The battery-electric drive super sports car generates 392 kW (525 hp) and 880 Nm (649 lb-ft) of torque. The second piece of “electrifying” news – January 29 will see the official starting signal of the “Mercedes-Benz World Drive”, the first journey around the world with fuel cell electric drive. Under the motto “125! Years of Innovation”, Mercedes-Benz is showing in Detroit a complete spectrum of highly efficient and clean drives for the automobiles of today and tomorrow.

“The Mercedes-Benz SLS AMG E-CELL is the most technically advanced super sports car in the 125-year history of the automobile, and shows just how fascinating electromobility can be. Our customers will be able to order it from their Mercedes-Benz dealers from 2013 onwards”, said Dr. Dieter Zetsche, Chairman of the Board of Management of Daimler AG and Head of Mercedes-Benz Cars, at the Mercedes press conference. Zetsche delivered his words on the redesigned Mercedes show stand, which offers a three-dimensional experience of the Stuttgart automaker’s multi-faceted driveline strategy on an area of almost 1,800 square metres. “Our stand architecture vividly shows how single-mindedly we are moving forward,” continued Zetsche. “We are driving on a multi-lane highway into the future – one that we have populated with all relevant driveline technologies. The spectrum ranges from high-tech internal combustion engines, like our new gasoline direct injection units and our BlueTEC diesels, through a variety of types of hybrids to powerful battery and fuel cell electric drives with full everyday usability.”

Mercedes-Benz F-CELL World Drive – around the world with hydrogen

At the end of 2009, Mercedes-Benz put its first electric vehicle with fuel cell drive made under series production conditions on the road with the B-Class F-CELL. As part of a spectacular road trip, the brand with the star now wants to provide impressive proof of the enormous potential offered by fuel cell technology – on the occasion of the official birthday of the automobile on January 29, three fuel cell vehicles from the current series production run will set off from Stuttgart on the “Mercedes-Benz World Drive” – 125 days long, across four continents and through 14 countries. Each of the three vehicles will cover around 30,000 kilometres (18,750 miles).

“Electric cars with fuel cells have what it takes to revolutionise our mobility once more,” said Dr. Thomas Weber, Member of the Board of Daimler AG, responsible for Group Research and Mercedes-Benz Cars Development. “The hydrogen-driven B-Class

F-CELL combines several key benefits. Its drive is efficient, clean and fully suitable for everyday use. Plus, it delivers local zero-emissions driving with a long range of around 400 kilometres (240 miles), short refueling times of only three minutes and no shortage of driving pleasure.” This is provided courtesy of the 100 kW (136 hp) electric motor that generates a refined 290 Nm (214 lb-ft) of torque. The B-Class F-CELL achieves an NEDC (New European Driving Cycle) consumption figure equating to just 3.3 litres of fuel (diesel equivalent) per 100 kilometres. Its EPA fuel economy stands at 54 mpg.

Commitment to the establishment of a hydrogen fuel station network

Mercedes-Benz has now developed fuel cell technology for automotive drive to series production maturity. However, while the vehicle technology of the B-Class F-CELL is fully mature, the fuel station infrastructure represents limitations. Dr. Weber: “With our ‘F-CELL World Drive’, we want not only to demonstrate the capability and everyday usability of fuel cell drive, but also to lobby for the establishment of a hydrogen fuel cell network. This will make the B-Class F-CELL a global ambassador for a new, local zero-emissions auto-mobility of the future.”

In order to ensure fuel supply to the participating vehicles on all stages of the tour,

a hydrogen fuel tanker will be used at all the start and finish points along the route. Dr. Weber: “Our ‘World Drive’ will also serve to motivate governments and energy suppliers to build a suitable refueling infrastructure. Our objective is clear – in future, drivers should be able to fill up with hydrogen anywhere in the world, in the same way that they can today with gasoline and diesel.”

MURRAY HILL & NEW PROVIDENCE, N.J.–Linde North America has received certification under the American Chemistry Council’s Responsible Care® program at its Lima, Ohio, plant where the company operates two hydrogen units.

Linde North America is a member of The Linde Group, a world-leading gases and engineering company. The American Chemistry Council (ACC) is an association of producers, manufacturers and suppliers of chemical products.

Warren Arenz, head of safety, health, environment and quality for Linde North America, said, “I congratulate the entire team at our Lima plant. This certification falls right in line with Linde’s goals as a high performance organization and our vision to be the leading gases and engineering company. With the certification of the Lima plant, Linde completed its 2010 commitment to sustaining the practices specified in the Responsible Care management system. We are very proud of our continued membership in the American Chemistry Council.”

In 2010, Linde’s headquarters in Murray Hill, New Jersey, re-qualified for Responsible Care Certification. Since 2008, 17 Linde North America plants have been certified under the program. The Lima plant is the fourth, and final, location scheduled for certification in 2010. The Linde air separation plants in Aiken, South Carolina, Bethlehem, Pennsylvania, and Sacramento, California, received certification earlier last year.

Linde operates two hydrogen units at the Lima facility. The first has been in operation since 2000 and supplies nearly 13 million cubic feet per day of hydrogen by pipeline to International Specialty Products’ nearby petrochemical plant. The other, operating since 2006, supplies 22 million cubic feet per day of hydrogen via pipeline to the neighboring Husky Energy petroleum refinery. Linde employs 11 people at the Lima site.

Lima cluster manager, Normand Paquette, said, “The Lima operations team was very excited to be selected to participate in ACC’s Responsible Care program. The auditors were impressive and the process was very stringent. We are extremely proud to have received this certification. Each member of our team is to be congratulated for a job well done.”

Responsible Care is a globally recognized management system aimed at helping companies improve performance in areas such as safety, health, environment and security. Certification is mandatory for all ACC member companies, which must undergo headquarter and facility audits by an independent, accredited auditor to verify that they have a structure and system in place that manages and measures performance. Lloyd’s Register Quality Assurance (LRQA) is Linde’s independent auditor.

The Responsible Care management system offers an integrated, structured approach for driving continual improvement in seven key areas: community awareness and emergency response; security; distribution; employee health and safety; pollution prevention; process safety; and product stewardship.

Implementing the Responsible Care system is a multi-step process. Companies must first plan – identify, assess and evaluate potential hazards and risks associated with their products, processes and operations – and establish goals and objectives to address any significant hazards or risks. Next, they must do what they have planned, checking their progress along the way to measure performance and take necessary corrective actions. Communicating with employees and other stakeholders, including neighbors and customers, along the way also is essential.

The Linde Group is a world leading gases and engineering company with almost 48,000 employees working in more than 100 countries worldwide. In the 2009 financial year it achieved sales of EUR 11.2 billion (USD 15.3 billion). The strategy of The Linde Group is geared towards sustainable earnings-based growth and focuses on the expansion of its international business with forward-looking products and services.

Linde acts responsibly towards its shareholders, business partners, employees, society and the environment – in every one of its business areas, regions and locations across the globe. Linde is committed to technologies and products that unite the goals of customer value and sustainable development.

For more information, visit Linde North America online at http://www.lindeus.com

DANBURY, Conn.– FuelCell Energy, Inc. (Nasdaq:FCEL ) a leading manufacturer of ultra-clean, efficient and reliable power plants using renewable and other fuels for commercial, industrial, government, and utility customers, today announced that it has entered into a definitive agreement with an institutional investor to sell an aggregate of 10,160,428 units at a negotiated price of $1.87 per unit, with each unit consisting of (i) one share of its common stock, par value $0.0001 per share (”Common Stock”) and (ii) one warrant to purchase 1.0 share of Common Stock, in a registered direct offering for gross proceeds of $19.0 million. The net proceeds from the sale of the units, after deducting the placement agent fees and other estimated offering expenses, will be approximately $17.8 million. The Company intends to use the proceeds from this offering for product development, project financing, expansion of manufacturing capacity, and general corporate purposes.

The warrants have an exercise price of $2.29 per share and are exercisable beginning on the date that is six months and one day after the closing date and will expire twenty one months after issuance. Additionally, FuelCell Energy will obtain the right, subject to certain conditions, to require the investor to purchase up to 10.0 million additional shares approximately nine months after the initial closing date of the transaction. The sale price for the additional shares will be based on a fixed ten percent discount to a volume weighted average price (VWAP) measurement at the time FuelCell Energy exercises the option. FuelCell Energy cannot require the investor to purchase more than $20 million of additional shares.

The offering is expected to close on or about January 13, 2011, subject to the satisfaction of customary closing conditions. Lazard Capital Markets LLC served as the sole placement agent for the offering.

A shelf registration statement relating to these securities was previously filed and declared effective by the Securities and Exchange Commission. The securities may be offered only by means of a prospectus, including a prospectus supplement, forming a part of the effective registration statement. A preliminary prospectus supplement related to the offering has been filed with the Securities and Exchange Commission and is available on the SEC’s web site at http://www.sec.gov. When available, copies of the final prospectus supplement relating to this offering can be obtained at the Securities and Exchange Commission’s website http://www.sec.gov. or from Lazard Capital Markets LLC, 30 Rockefeller Plaza, 60^th Floor, New York, NY 10020 or via telephone at (800) 542-0970.

This press release does not constitute an offer to sell or the solicitation of offers to buy any securities of FuelCell Energy, and shall not constitute an offer, solicitation or sale of any security in any state or jurisdiction in which such offer, solicitation or sale would be unlawful prior to registration or qualification under the securities laws of any such state or jurisdiction.

About FuelCell Energy

DFC(R) fuel cells are generating power at over 50 locations worldwide. The Company’s power plants have generated over 650 million kWh of power using a variety of fuels including renewable wastewater gas, biogas from beer and food processing, as well as natural gas and other hydrocarbon fuels. FuelCell Energy has partnerships with major power plant developers and power companies around the world. The Company also receives funding from the U.S. Department of Energy and other government agencies for the development of leading edge technologies such as fuel cells. For more information please visit our website at www.fuelcellenergy.com

Grid electricity from natural and bio gas using fuel cell technology

Construction of the large SOFC power plants of the future will require high-power fuel cell stacks. This is the first time a 10 kW power class planar SOFC fuel stack is being operated as part of a complete fuel cell system.

The system is currently undergoing endurance testing to determine component reliability, durability and development needs. Some of the system’s components are prototypes developed at VTT that have not yet reached mass production. Since the beginning of November 2010 the system has completed more than 1,500 hours of reliable and continuous operation. The electricity produced equates to the average annual consumption of five apartments in an apartment block.

SOFC fuel cell technology is an extremely low-emission energy source. The SOFC technology can be used to utilize a wide range of different fuels, including biogas, which is normally difficult to exploit efficiently using other technologies.

Lappeenranta University of Technology and Aalto University are among those participating in the project, which is coordinated by VTT and jointly funded by Tekes – the Finnish Funding Agency for Technology and Innovation and Finnish industrial companies. Development of the system’s power electronics, used in transforming direct current produced by the SOFC into alternating current suitable for the grid, was carried out at Lappeenranta University of Technology. Aalto University has participated in the unit’s mechanical design. The SOFC stack for the system was supplied by Versa Power Systems Inc. of Canada.

Apart from funding, Finnish companies are also involved in development and gathering of experience regarding the application of their own products to SOFC systems. Wärtsilä Finland Oy, among others, is exploiting experiences garnered under the research project in its own SOFC system development work.

Japan’s Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry is launching a new 500 million yen ($6 million) program to purify hydrogen that has been used in the oil refining process so it can be used to power fuel cell vehicles, The Nikkei reports.

The hydrogen used to remove sulfur from oil is about 90% pure. The government wants to devise a method of extracting hydrogen of the 99.99% purity needed for fuel cells, the Japanese newspaper says.

METI will pay half the cost of the three-year program, which will start in April, and unnamed industry partners will fund the balance. The new program supports Japan’s efforts to develop a hydrogen infrastructure and begin sales of fuel cell vehicles within six years.

Last month METI announced a demonstration program that includes building a network of hydrogen stations in Tokyo and several other cities, a hydrogen pipeline that supplies fuel directly to test households and a small fleet of fuel cell buses and taxis.

Separately, Japan’s Yamanashi Prefecture and Yamanashi University have launched an effort to promote fuel cell technology and install hydrogen stations along the region’s Chuo highway. The university has been developing fuel cell-related technology for several years.

Pike Research announced the expansion of its Fuel Cells practice and the addition of four industry analysts to its Smart Energy research team. The expansion of coverage will enable the firm to increase its focus on the rapidly growing global market for fuel cells and related clean energy technologies for stationary, portable, and motive applications. Pike Research’s new team members all join the firm from Fuel Cell Today, the widely recognized authority on market analysis and consulting for the fuel cells industry.

“Fuel cells have long been an elusive solution for a wide range of clean energy applications,” says Pike Research president Clint Wheelock. “However, as the technological capabilities and economics of fuel cells continue to improve, they are playing a role in an increasingly greater variety of markets ranging from transportation to stationary power to portable electronics, and we feel that the sector is poised for significant growth over the next few years. We are excited to add the knowledge and expertise of four well-known fuel cells analysts to our growing research team.”

Pike Research’s new industry analysts are:

* Kerry-Ann Adamson, Research Director. Adamson was previously principal consultant for Fuel Cell Today and founder of FCT Consulting. She has an extensive background in researching emerging technologies in the stationary power sector including fuel cells as well as combined heat and power. A widely recognized expert in fuel cells, she has authored and co-authored more than 100 papers, reports, books, and articles and has presented at numerous international conferences and workshops. Adamson holds a Ph.D. in fuel cells from Imperial College, London and is based in Pike Research’s European regional headquarters in London.

* Lisa Jerram, Senior Analyst. Jerram has more than 15 years experience in the alternative energy market with a focus on fuel cells and emerging transportation technologies. Prior to joining Pike Research, she was a senior market analyst at Fuel Cell Today, technology director for the Breakthrough Technologies Institute, and associate director at the Northeast Advanced Vehicle Consortium. Jerram holds a BA from the University of Virginia. She is based at Pike Research’s office in Washington, DC.

* Anissa Dehamna, Research Analyst. Dehamna contributes to Pike Research’s smart energy and fuel cells practices, with a concentration on emerging energy technologies and sustainable development. Before joining Pike Research, she was a market analyst at Fuel Cell Today. Dehamna is based at Pike Research’s Washington, DC office and holds an MS in International Strategy and Economics from the University of St. Andrews in Scotland and a BA in International Affairs from the George Washington University.

* Euan Sadden, Research Analyst. Sadden contributes to Pike Research’s fuel cells and smart energy practices. His background includes work experience in cleantech investment, policy analysis and development, and project management primarily in Australasia and Southeast Asia. He was previously a market analyst at Fuel Cell Today. Sadden holds an MSc in environmental policy from Oxford University, a BA in international relations from Victoria University of Wellington, and a BS in geography from the University of Otago. He is based in Pike Research’s London office.

“Our team is very pleased to join Pike Research at this exciting time in the development of the fuel cell industry,” says Adamson. “Pike Research has quickly emerged as a leader in providing insightful analysis of emerging clean technology markets, and fuel cells and other related smart energy technologies will be an increasingly important part of the global cleantech picture.”

Pike Research is a market research and consulting firm that provides in-depth analysis of global clean technology markets. The company’s research methodology combines supply-side industry analysis, end-user primary research and demand assessment, and deep examination of technology trends to provide a comprehensive view of the Smart Energy, Clean Transportation, Clean Industry, and Building Efficiency sectors. For more information, visit www.pikeresearch.com or call +1.303.997.4619

ITM Power (AIM: ITM), the energy storage and clean fuel company, and Stansted Airport today announce the commencement of the Company’s Hydrogen On Site Trials (HOST) of ITM Power’s transportable high pressure refueling unit (HFuel) and Hydrogen Internal Combustion Engine (HICE) Ford Transit vans at London Stansted Airport on 7 March 2011. The trial at London Stansted marks the launch of HOST and will be followed by trials with the other organizations that have agreed to make their participation public. A full list of these HOST partners is set out below.

To launch the HOST programme, ITM Power and London Stansted will be hosting an event on Tuesday, 8 March 2011 to which all ITM Power’s analysts and investors (as well as all other interested parties) are invited. The day will include some invited guest presentations and a hydrogen refuelling demonstration. To register for the event please visit www.itm-power.com/hostlaunch.php

HFuel is a self-contained module suitable for refuelling hydrogen-powered road vehicles and forklift trucks. It is well suited to small fleet applications of both fuel cell and hydrogen internal combustion engine vehicles. HFuel is based around a standard freight container format and can be expanded after the initial installation enabling a staged roll-out of hydrogen fuel production, storage and dispensing. HFuel generates hydrogen by electrolysis, compresses it, stores it and dispenses the gas on demand at high pressure (nominally 350 bar/35MPa). It requires an on-site water and electricity supply but is otherwise an autonomous solution for refuelling hydrogen-powered vehicles.

Commenting for ITM Power, CEO Graham Cooley said: “HOST will be the largest multi-sector trial of hydrogen refuelling for transport in the UK, involving 20 major partner organizations. Airports are perfect locations for trialling return to base hydrogen refuelling and we are delighted that London Stansted Airport will be the location from which we launch the HOST programme.”

Dr Andy Jefferson, Stansted Airport’s head of health, safety and environment, said: “Environmental management at London Stansted is critical to the sustainability of our business and is an issue that we take extremely seriously, so we’re delighted to be working with ITM Power and launch their ground-breaking Hydrogen On Site Trial project at the airport.”

The overall purpose and ambition of HyLIFT-DEMO is to conduct a large scale demonstration of hydrogen powered fuel cell forklifts, which enables a following deployment and market introduction starting no later than 2013. The project will conduct a 2 year demonstration of at least 30 units of 2.5-3.5 tons forklifts with a fully integrated 3rd generation fuel cell system and hydrogen refueling infrastructure at end-user sites.

The HyLIFT-DEMO project objectives are:

Demonstration of at least 30 forklifts

Demonstration of hydrogen refueling infrastructure at end-user sites

Conduct accelerated laboratory durability tests

Validate value proposition & reaching of commercial and environmental targets

Plan and secure initiation of R&D of 4th generation commercial products

Ensure commercial market deployment no later than 2013

Secure RCS for enabling commercialization

European dissemination securing national & regional motivation

The EHA in collaboration with the Italian Federation of Scientific and Technical Associations, FAST, will be working towards writing a guidance document for conducting project activities on fuel cell forklifts, targeted towards regional and local actors, as a help for them in setting up own projects. EHA will also be collaborating in the organization of dissemination activities, and workshops.

Fluid Computer Systems creates first Windows 7-based, multi-touch screen tablet PC, powered by fuel cell technology

LAS VEGAS — Fluid Computer Systems (http://www.fluidTablets.com) has unveiled the first fuel cell powered Windows 7 Tablet PC. The CEO, Aaron Henry, and COO, Todd Miller, are attending the Consumer Electronics show this week with the “Fuel Cell Powered” tablet prototype in tow. People will be able to follow updates to their progress at the company’s website, http://www.fluidTablets.com, or follow them on Twitter (http://www.twitter.com/fluidtablets). They will be filming a micro documentary at CES 2011 highlighting their transition from self-funded startup to early-stage business. The video will be available on the company website.

CEO Aaron Henry remarked, “Thanks to our partnership with NuMeridian out of San Diego and parts they supplied from Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies we were able to assemble a working prototype of the first fuel cell powered tablet. Unfortunately we did not have enough time to secure a booth at CES 2011, so we will be testing the prototype as we walk the show. We will be filming a micro documentary of our CES 2011 experience while showcasing the prototype.”

Fluid Computer Systems (http://www.fluidtablets.com) sold out of their first limited production of the Fluid Stream model tablets in December of 2010, just in time for Christmas. The new models will be faster and have better battery life at the same $599 cost. Rumor has it the new models will include 4G capability.

When asked if the 4G rumor was true, Mr. Henry replied, “All I can say is negotiations with Telispire PCS to offer Sprint 4G/3G data plans on our PC Tablets are going very well. We also expect to offer Verizon data plans soon. The true goal of Fluid Computer Systems is to pack all the features a college student needs into our Windows 7 PC tablets without increasing the cost. Students have enough to deal with since college and university rates are increasing throughout the country.”

About Fluid Computer Systems

Fluid Computer Systems is a Las Vegas-based company founded by Aaron Henry and Todd Miller. Currently Fluid Computer Systems offers the least expensive Windows 7-based tablet on the market, at $599 without compromising on quality. This may change after CES 2011, but for now they have the best price for the specifications. Fluid Computer Systems is currently entertaining another round of funding, possibly from Silicon Valley, but no funding has been confirmed yet.

Companies interested in distribution of the first “Fuel Cell” powered Windows 7 PC Tablet can contact the media relations person.

• Deal underscores growing global demand for clean energy buses
• First S.American order will help advance commercialization of fuel cell buses

VANCOUVER,–Ballard Power Systems (TSX: BLD; NASDAQ: BLDP) today announced a contract to supply three fuel cell power modules to Tuttotrasporti (www.tuttotrasporti.com.br; TUTTO), the largest Brazilian integrator of hybrid transit buses. Ballard’s fuel cell modules are intended for use in zero-emission buses operated by transit agencies in Brazil.

“This contract is a further indicator of growing demand for clean fuel cell-powered buses,” said Michael Goldstein, Ballard’s Chief Commercial Officer. “Brazil has 350,000 transit buses in operation today and is the third largest bus manufacturer globally. We are very pleased to extend our partnership with a leading integrator in TUTTO, operating in the important South American market.”

Under Brazil’s National Plan on Climate Change – a set of inter-ministerial programs designed to cut emissions in the transportation, forestry, industrial and energy sectors – the government has committed to significant use of zero-emission transit technology. Initiatives will be implemented during the lead-up to the 2014 World Cup and 2016 Summer Olympic Games being held in Brazil, and beyond.

In Brazil’s largest city, Sao Paulo, greenhouse gas emissions are approximately 3 million tons annually, 85% of which is generated by vehicles. As a result, clean energy transportation is a high priority under the National Plan on Climate Change.

Agenor Boff, President of Tuttotrasporti said, “We see a sizable opportunity for zero-emission fuel cell buses in our target market. My company’s prior experience has confirmed Ballard’s leadership in delivering the highest value in fuel cell power modules available anywhere.”

TUTTO has integrated more than 125,000 vehicles in the truck, transit and intercity transportation markets during the company’s 20-year history. Ballard and TUTTO previously partnered on the development of a fuel cell bus under a UNDP / EMTU (United Nations Development Programme / Empresa Metropolitana de Transportes Urbanos) program. The bus has now been operational in Sao Paulo for over one year.

Increased volumes of fuel cell-powered buses are expected to support cost and price reductions through scale economies, enabling fuel cell solutions to compete more effectively with incumbent transit technologies.

In August of 2010 Apple managed to score an exclusive license to use the space-age amorphous metal alloy known as Liquidmetal.

Liquidmetal has a lot of potential for use in a range of different market sectors because it has high tensile strength, is very resistant to corrosion, has a very high coefficient of restitution, doesn’t wear easily, is lightweight, and can easily be molded into shapes much like plastic is.

With a license under its belt Apple was expected to put the alloy to good use in new devices such as the iPhone 5. But the first patent Apple has been awarded for the alloy comes as a surprise as it covers using it as part of a fuel cell. Specifically, the Liquidmetal is used as a collector plate acting as a catalyst for the energy generation process in a hydrogen fuel cell.

Liquidmetal’s properties make it a good choice as a fuel cell material, specifically because it doesn’t corrode easily and is very durable. As a fuel cell produces water as a byproduct, and needs to be refilled regularly, both are highly desirable properties in such a system.

While the patent doesn’t allow us to pinpoint a specific product Apple is developing, it does suggest future iDevices may rely on a fuel cell energy source rather than a rechargeable battery. That could mean a month between refills in an iPhone, and at least a couple of weeks of power in an iPad.

Read more at Cult of Mac and the patent filing.