Fuel Cell Systems powers signs on National Highways network

Fuel Cell Systems, a UK-based hydrogen refuelling and fuel cell engineering company, has supported SWARCO UK & Ireland in the installation of the first fuel cell powered traffic management equipment on the National Highways network. 

The deployment of the low-emission fuel cell technology eliminates the need for polluting forms of reliable off grid power.

SWARCO delivers traffic and transport technology used for road safety, traffic flow and network performance. Many of its roadside infrastructure locations share the common challenge of needing dependable, constant, low-voltage power without mains electricity access. 

Traditional solutions, such as continuously running diesel generators, produce significant emissions, while micro-renewables are often unsuitable due to site constraints and the weather.

At the M6 Lancaster Motorway Services, Fuel Cell Systems enables SWARCO to bypass these issues. Fuel Cell Systems provided an EFOY Pro 12000 direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) to deliver continuous, weather independent off grid power to the variable message signage (VMS) used to display fuel price information to motorists from the nearby motorway verge. This fuel cell solution acts as a smart battery charger, monitoring an attached battery to maintain its voltage when charging is required. It maximises battery life, system efficiency, and fuel economy, reducing the cost of refuelling at off grid and hazardous locations, such as at the side of the motorway.

Unlike internal combustion engines, DMFCs do not burn fuel to create power, offering exceptional environmental performance, producing only water and near zero levels of carbon. They also have minimal moving parts, which eliminates noise pollution and significantly reduces the need for routine maintenance.

Paul Calvert, project support manager at SWARCO UK & Ireland, said: “With the support of Fuel Cell Systems, SWARCO gained approval to install the first fuel cell powered equipment on the National Highways network. This was following a thorough review and approval process.”

Dr Lee Juby, chief executive at Fuel Cell Systems, said: “Our local technical support and straightforward product integration helped greatly with the National Highways approval process. As highway authorities across the UK seek cleaner alternatives to diesel generators for off grid applications, fuel cells offer a proven, reliable solution. The success of this installation demonstrates that fuel cell technology can support the UK's transport infrastructure sustainability goals.

Fuel Cell Systems (FCSL)’s parent company, Hydrasun, is part of the D2Zero group of companies. FCSL has deployed HyQube modular refuellers on behalf of companies including Toyota, BMW, Exeter and Bristol Airports, Oxfordshire County Council and Keele University.