IdaTech Corp. (Bend, OR), a fuel cell system/component and fuel cell solutions provider, announced that it has received CE (European Conformity) certification for its 5 kW natural gas, combined heat and power, proton-exchange membrane fuel cell system. This is the first of IdaTech's new line of fuel cell systems named EtaGen™.
Currently there are no formal CE certification standards in place for fuel cell systems in this power range. The CE certification allows sales and operation of IdaTech's fuel cell systems while permanent standards are being finalized. As part of the certification process, IdaTech complied with the CE directives identified by various certification agencies as being the most applicable to fuel cells. IdaTech's system was tested against the essential requirements, which included the low-voltage, electro-magnetic compliance, and the machine directives.
A unique feature of the system is its platform's dual-fuel capability, allowing it to operate on either natural gas or commercial propane. The EtaGen™ incorporates IdaTech's fuel processing technology and fuel cell power module, and produces 4.6 kW net ac power, and 6 kW of thermal power, making it suitable for a number of multi-dwelling and light commercial applications. A number of these systems are undergoing evaluation and testing with various partners in Europe, North America and Asia.
