Italian-based Electro Power Systems has built a self-recharging hydrogen fuel cell that can provide backup power for mobile phone networks.

 

The ElectroSelf is a hydrogen fuel cell that consumes only water, while providing backup power for other renewable energy sources or the grid, the company said last week.

 

It works by combining hydrogen and oxygen to produce an electrical current. It generates zero carbon emissions and leaves waste water as the only by-product, which is stored by the system.

 

When power becomes available again, either from a grid or a renewable source, the fuel cell generates its own hydrogen from the water using electrolysis, ensuring that the hydrogen tank remains full and ready for use when power becomes unavailable.

 

The cell cuts operating cost for mobile operators by eliminating their fuel bills and reducing the maintenance that would be required for using generators or batteries for backup power.