Pacific Energy Group’s integrated renewables subsidiary, Hybrid Systems Australia (“Hybrid Systems”) has signed an agreement with Charles Darwin University (CDU) to deliver a Hydrogen Energy Storage System (HESS).
A first for the Northern Territory, the 5kW fuel cell with 8kWhr of hydrogen storage system will be used by CDU students and researchers as a technology development project to further develop and commercialise the use of hydrogen as an energy storage mechanism in collaboration with industry partners.
The hydrogen generation and storage package, with grid forming capability will be manufactured and built by Hybrid Systems. The contract award comes off the back of Hybrid Systems announcing national expansion plans, commencing in the Northern Territory, alongside the recent acquisition of Digital Intelligence, a Darwin based specialist in high-end control systems and instrumentation – increasing the business’ commitment and capacity to deliver projects in the NT.
“We are delighted to work with Charles Darwin University to adapt our proven and reliable SPS product for the students to test the capability of creating renewable hydrogen and integrating electrolysers and fuel-cells into the grid. The HESS will convert power from the university’s Renewable Energy Grid Testing Facility into renewable hydrogen, which will be stored and then used to generate power” said Mike Hall, Hybrid Systems Executive Director.
CDU’s Energy and Resources Institute (ERI) Director, Prof. Suresh Thennadil said a green hydrogen future for the NT would need comprehensive research and evaluation.
“Funding from the Strategic University Reform Fund (SURF) is enabling us to develop a world-class Grid Testing Facility through the REMHART project which fosters collaborations between CDU and industry in the NT through applied research projects and training programs. The hydrogen electrolyser and fuel cell system further expands our capabilities in renewable energy systems.
Hybrid Systems has specialised in Stand Alone Power systems since 2018 and was recently awarded another contract by WA utility provider, Western Power to deliver an additional 82 SPS units in 2022/23. Awarded a total of 196 SPS’s since the program began, is the largest deployment of SPS units in the world.
Recognised for Stand Alone Power Systems in the Innovation category at the National Infrastructure Awards, the Hybrid System’s designed SPS units utilise world-class componentry,