Through First Energy Generation Corp. is a subsidiary of Akron, Ohio-based First Energy Corp Ballard Power Systems announced yesterday the completion of factory testing of a utility- scale distributed generation system using the company’s proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells. Installation and commissioning of the system for a multi-year demonstration at FirstEnergy Generation Corp’s Eastlake Plant in Ohio.
“We are pleased to have passed this key customer milestone,” said Michael Goldstein, Ballard’s Chief Commercial Officer. “Once commissioned, this will be an important ‘first’ for us, meeting a key 2010 Ballard growth milestone and further demonstrating the benefits of fuel cell systems for clean distributed generation applications in the energy sector.”
Ballard designed the generator to provide clean energy peaking capacity, which is particularly useful during heavy energy demand periods in the summer months, and tested the generator to a power level of one megawatt. Because fuel cells use hydrogen to produce electricity – with heat and water as by-products – this technology is a more environmentally-friendly means of generating power than diesel or coal alternatives. In addition, the Ballard generator is transportable so it can be relocated to other sites on a seasonal basis.
Dave "The Connector" Forde has been involved in the technology industry across Canada for over 10 years in sales and marketing roles. Part of my passion is to connect people and help to grow businesses. Chair of 
