Kennards invests in hydrogen generators

Australian company Kennards Hire has purchased two new EODEV GEH2 Electro-Hydrogen Generators from Blue Diamond Machinery, a distributor of off-grid power solutions, which supplies Australia’s rental sector.

The GEH2, designed by French specialist in hydrogen power solutions EODev, produces zero CO2, HC, NOx and fine particle emissions.

It has a compact design for easy transport and is intended for use in a range of sectors including mining, construction, events, telecom, EV charging and back-up power.

The GEH2, designed by French specialist in hydrogen power solutions EODev, produces zero CO2, HC, NOx and fine particle emissions. (Photo: Kennards Hire.)

It can be stacked together, and can complement diesel or gas generators, or connect to the grid.

The generator is powered by Toyota’s “latest generation” fuel cell and a lithium-ion iron phosphate battery “to generate close to 80 kW of electricity, decrease noise emissions, and offer instant power,” a statement from Kennards confirmed.

The company claims to be the first to market in the Australian equipment hire industry with the generator.

The “pioneering investment in EODEV GEH2 hydrogen power generators” was aligned to its commitment to sustainable practices and circular economy thinking, “highlighting the potential of the hire and rental sector to lead the adoption of hydrogen and other clean power solutions,” its statement said. 

Kennards Hire, CEO, Bill Whitehouse commented that, “the nature of hire is already considered a favourable decision for customers who want to ensure their projects are as green as possible.

A Kennards depot in Sydney, New South Wales, Australia. (Photo: Kennards Hire.)

“Through Kennards Hire, equipment rental products such as the GEH2 hydrogen power generator are now becoming a more viable sustainable solutions option.

“Being the first in the Australian hire industry to offer an alternative, clean energy, zero-emissions solution for large-scale projects highlights how hire is an integral part of the circular economy.”

Blue Diamond will act as the exclusive national distributor of the GEH2. It has nationwide coverage and aftermarket support; and its Net Zero Equipment range includes off-grid clean power solutions including hydrogen power generators, energy storage systems, solar light towers, and electric ATVs.

Blue Diamond Director, Justin Pitts said early discussions with Kennards’ Bill Whitehouse revealed the company had “already been looking into hydrogen powered generators as a potential offering for their rental fleet.”

“I’m absolutely thrilled that one of our key existing customers in diesel power generation, is now the first company in Australia to purchase the GEH2 hydrogen power generator, proving that it’s the traditional players in the diesel generation space who can have the biggest impact.”