By Greentech Lead Africa: Ballard Power Systems, a
provider of clean energy fuel cell products, has partnered with Anglo American
Platinum, a primary producer of platinum group metals, to work on a number of
early-stage stationary and motive power applications of clean, zero-emission
fuel cells in the South African market.
“We are excited to broaden our relationship with Anglo
American Platinum. Our joint efforts could lead to cost-effective products for
use in stationary and motive power applications at mining sites and as well as
for use in broader market applications,” said John Sheridan, president and CEO
of Ballard.
The companies deployed and demonstrated a 150 kilowatt fuel cell system
near the 17th Conference of the Parties (COP17) to the United Nations Framework
Convention on Climate Change held in Durban, South Africa in late-2011. COP17
was a high-level summit on climate change.
Anglo American Platinum is also beginning above ground
testing of five fuel cell-powered locomotives at its Dishaba mine in Limpopo
province, South Africa. The locomotives use Ballard fuel cell stacks in a
system designed by Vehicle Projects of Golden, Colorado, USA.the vehicles are intended
for use in transporting equipment underground at mining sites.
In 2012 Ballard and Anglo American Platinum are
initiating a test of a proof-of-concept system for a small-scale electric
generator that will utilize onsite propane or natural gas. The system will
utilize an integrated fuel reformer to extract hydrogen from hydrocarbon fuel,
which will then be channeled to a fuel cell stack. The product could supplement
the power grid for homes and businesses in geographies where the grid is
unreliable.
Ballard in pact with Tata Motors to drive clean fuel cell bus
in India
Recently, Ballard Power Systems signed agreement
with Tata Motors India for 12 FCvelocity-1100 fuel cell stacks. These stacks
are expected to power zero-emission buses planned for demonstration in various
Indian cities. Delivery to Tata Motors is planned for 2012 and 2013, in-line
with that Company’s plans.