AFC Energy launches hydrogen generator

UK-based developer of hydrogen fuel cell generators AFC Energy has launched its 2nd Generation H-Power S+ 200kW Generator.

Described by the company as a next-generation clean energy solution, the unit builds upon the 1st Generation prototype developed alongside ABB as part of a partnership announced in 2020.

Designed for construction and off-grid power applications, the upgraded H-Power S+ 200kW genset is now 34% smaller in size, 28% lighter in weight and is said to be 65% lower in cost.

According to AFC Energy, the upgrades make it “more portable and cost-effective” while also removing barriers to widespread hydrogen adoption. 

It will be first deployed via its UK partner Brett Aggregates, where it will be used to power facility operations under the UK government’s Red Diesel Replacement (RDR) Grant.

The RDR programme, administered by the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, is focused on accelerating clean energy technology adoption in the construction, mining, and quarrying sectors.

With up to £40 million in matched funding available, the initiative is part of the £1 billion Net Zero Innovation Portfolio (NZIP), which aims to drive the commercialisation of innovative clean energy solutions throughout the 2020s and 2030s.

The company said the development of the H-Power S+ 200kW Generator was made possible through collaboration with its partners, including the Department for Energy Security and Net Zero, Energy Solutions (UK) Ltd, ABB, Speedy Hire, and Brett Aggregates.

As part of a partnership with Speedy Hire, it launched Speedy Hydrogen Solutions Ltd (SHS) in 2023, a 50:50 joint venture company dedicated to renting hydrogen fuel cell powered generators.

At the end of 2024 the company said the join venture was getting a “very positive” reception from customers, with AFC’s full year revenues of approximately £4 million were largely driven by sales to SHS.