FuelCell Energy Solutions, GmbH, which manufactures, sells, operates and services ultra-clean, efficient and reliable fuel cell power plants, announced the issuance of nearly €5 million in awards by Germany's Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy to support a three-year research and development project between FuelCell Energy Solutions, GmbH and joint venture partner Fraunhofer IKTS. The project targets further enhancements to the Direct FuelCell^® (DFC^®) technology by increasing power density and operating life of the fuel cells, leading to lower costs.

"Fraunhofer IKTS continues to undertake fuel cell research in recognition that the attributes of high efficiency, virtual lack of emissions, low carbon output, and ability to easily site fuel cell plants in populated areas can help address the power generation challenges facing Germany and many other European countries," said Prof. Dr. Alexander Michaelis, Director of Fraunhofer IKTS. "The awards from the Federal Ministry for Economic Affairs and Energy will help expand Germany's existing fuel cell knowledge and assist in advancing the technology towards greater adoption that should support economic development in Germany."

Chip Bottone, president and CEO of FuelCell Energy, Inc. and managing director of FuelCell Energy Solutions GmbH, said the award validates the global interest in its power and hydrogen generation solutions. "With the support of various government organizations, strategic partners and private industry, product, performance and system enhancements continue on our proprietary fuel cell technology and are now being performed on three continents," he said. "We utilize a common global technology platform so enhancements developed under these awards can support global markets, further strengthening the attractiveness of our product offerings."

The research and development programme aims to enhance the DFC fuel cell performance by increasing the power output of the fuel cell stack, making the fuel cell power plants even more affordable based on increased power output from the fuel cells and extended operating life for the fuel cell stack. With growing adoption supported by this research programme, enhancement of the fuel cell manufacturing in Germany is expected to follow, leading to job creation from manufacturing and the associated supply chain multiplier effect.