As the use of electric vehicles (EVs) continues to grow, the demand for reliable and cost-effective charging solutions is on the rise. In response, Plug Power has announced the launch of its new high-power stationary fuel cell system that can charge more than 600 EVs simultaneously. The system combines a megawatt-scale fuel cell solution with an 18,000-gallon liquid hydrogen tank, providing over 60MWh of instantaneous energy. This solution addresses the challenges that transport operators face with grid power capacity restrictions, clean power requirements, and long waiting times for grid infrastructure upgrades.

According to a 2020 report by Brattle, an investment of $75-125bn in US grid upgrades would be needed to support the expected 20 million EVs on US roads by 2030. As the adoption of EVs increases, electricity demand will put a strain on the grid, making Plug Power’s fuel cell system a game-changer for the EV industry.

Jose Luis Crespo, the General Manager of Applications and Global Accounts for Plug Power stated that customers are approaching the company for hydrogen power generation options, and he expects this offering to be one of the largest applications for stationary use this year.

This move by Plug Power is in line with other hydrogen players targeting EV charging as an area for growth and innovation. Last year, Gen Cell Energy, E.V. Motors Pure Energy, and Sun Surplus Energy and Co. launched a joint program to install fuel cells and energy storage technology for emissions-free EV charging in Israel. The deal aims to reduce reliance on fossil fuel-powered electricity for EV charging while also easing the strain on the country’s electricity grid.