Hydrogenics Corp. was awarded a contract by Basin Electric Power Cooperative, Bismarck, N.D., to supply an electrolyzer-based hydrogen refuelling station for installation in Minot, N.D.. In addition to the core electrolyzer module, Hydrogenics is supplying compression, storage and dispenser equipment as part of the contract. The station is one of the first US-based hydrogen fueling stations to use electricity from a wind power resource to produce hydrogen from water, in this case using electricity generated by wind resources either owned or contracted by Basin Electric.

The hydrogen produced will be used to refuel hydrogen-powered vehicles, demonstrating a linkage between wind power and vehicle refueling. Recognizing the challenge presented by the intermittency and varying outputs of wind power, an important element of the project is the development of various control schemes by which the electrolyzer can interface with the electrical output of wind turbines to optimize fuel production, particularly during low electricity demand periods. The project will demonstrate the ability and practicality of making and using hydrogen energy with zero carbon emissions, using excess wind power that might otherwise be under-utilized. This capability can potentially lead to significantly enhanced overall efficiencies of existing and future wind power installations.

The installation of this electrolyzer fueling station at North Dakota State University's North Central Research Extension Center, scheduled for the latter part of 2006, is an integral component of a Department of Energy (DOE) sponsored Wind Hydrogen project announced by Senator Byron Dorgan's office in September 2004. The Senator, a national leader in the drive to bring hydrogen and wind energy into mainstream use, has been instrumental in the creation and advancement of this unique multi-phase project.

"This is Hydrogenics' third undertaking to show how hydrogen technologies can add significant value and benefits to investments that people are making today in wind power in many parts of the world," comments Pierre Rivard, Hydrogenics President and Chief Executive Officer. "While Hydrogenics has the depth and versatility to make hydrogen using different technologies and feedstocks, the generation of totally clean, sustainable and cost-effective hydrogen is where we believe the greatest potential exists for growth in hydrogen infrastructure."

The hydrogen electrolyzer will be constructed at the Research Extension Center with the support of Verendrye Electric, Velva, N.D., and Central Power Electric Cooperative, Minot.

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