A new type of generator based on fuel cell technology is on its way to the market and could become a green alternative to diesel generators. With high flexibility and significantly lower CO₂ —emissions and operation using green methanol—the solution points toward a more sustainable way to provide temporary power, whether for construction sites, events, or other locations with limited or no access to the power grid.
High-Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell. It’s not the easiest word to pronounce, but it’s a solution that many can see the value in. The Deployable Green Power Solution project is further developing a fuel cell into a system whose performance and flexibility are comparable to those of a traditional diesel generator.
The advantage is that this generator significantly reduces CO₂ emissions and operates completely silently.
”The system is integrated into smaller units or as a container-based solution and runs primarily on eMethanol. In other words, it is a product that offers the same flexibility and mobility as a traditional generator, but is CO2e-neutral, vibration-free, and virtually silent, which opens up a wide range of applications across many different industries.” – says Benjamin Schmidt Thoftstrup, Business Development & Grant Manager at Whitecell Systems.
The system’s fuel is eMethanol, which is produced by combining green hydrogen from renewable electricity with biogenic CO₂ captured as a byproduct from, for example, biogas plants. The solution emits no harmful substances such as NOx, SOx, and particulate matter. Methanol also has a high energy content and is easy to handle, transport, and store, making it similar to traditional fossil fuels.
Danish-produced eMethanol
The eMethanol used as fuel by the generator is produced in Denmark. Whitecell Systems has just entered into an agreement with European Energy for the supply of eMethanol from its facility in Kassø, ensuring a stable supply based on renewable energy. This partnership establishes a 100% Danish value chain and makes the solution more environmentally friendly, scalable, and secure in terms of supply.
”eMethanol from the Kassø plant is contributing to decarbonization in an increasing number of value chains. In addition to sustainable materials and as a low-emission fuel for transportation, we are proud to supply fuel for decentralized green electricity generation. Locally produced energy for local events with a green profile ”— says Torben Nørgaard, Vice President, Head of Partnerships & Offtake, Power-to-X at European Energy.
A solution for both the construction and event industries
A standard diesel generator emits approximately 2.4–2.8 kg of CO2 per liter of diesel, depending on its size. And as summer approaches and outdoor events get underway, a large number of diesel generators are needed to power the electricity, sound, lighting, refrigeration, and more required to run a major concert.
”We have used Whitecell Systems’ generator to address two key challenges: locations where it is simply impossible to access electricity—such as at the Danish Cycling Championships—and events with such high power demands that the existing capacity is insufficient. At the Aalborg Regatta, there wasn’t enough power for the food trucks, refrigerated containers, and equipment in Utzon Park. Here, Whitecell’s generator acts as extra muscle. The smart thing is that the solution is mobile. As long as there’s space, there are practically no limits to what power needs we can meet with the system. ”— says Keld Rud Nielsen, project manager at Aalborg Events.
Aalborg Events also sees great potential in the further development of the generator.
“The current generator will eventually be supplemented with a smaller version, making it more flexible for even more events to use it. For example, our events on the waterfront, where we normally run cables from the existing electrical panels out to bars and food trucks. But having cables in the walkways is impractical. That’s why we definitely see potential in having them in a smaller format so they can supply power in a smaller space as well.” ”— Keld Rud Nielsen continues.
Similarly, construction sites across the country require temporary power, where multiple generators are often left running all day long. With this flexible and more environmentally friendly solution, the construction site and the surrounding area are spared a considerable amount of pollution and noise. Furthermore, idle consumption is completely eliminated, since the generator does not need to run at idle to supply power when needed—unlike electric cars.
”We can see that the need already exists today. More customers are seeking flexible, low-emission alternatives to diesel generators, and in many places this has become an explicit requirement from project owners. “That’s why the solution is already being used by several of the country’s largest contractors and by LOXAM, which rents out electric-powered machinery to the construction and civil engineering industries.” – says Benjamin Schmidt Thoftstrup
The green fuel cell solution demonstrates that it is now possible to combine operational reliability and flexibility while reducing environmental impact. With a growing focus on phasing out fossil fuel solutions in both the construction and event industries, this type of technology could be an important step toward a more sustainable energy supply —even in places where electricity is only temporary, limited, or nonexistent.
At Whitecell Systems, they clearly see the potential and are noticing the growing demand.
”We see great potential in relation to the world we live in today. There is a strong focus on security of supply and a robust energy supply—not least in light of the geopolitical situation. At the same time, the need for energy solutions in defense and emergency preparedness contexts is growing, where flexible and reliable energy solutions are crucial. This is where our solution can play a central role, because it can deliver stable power independently of the existing power grid while also supporting the green transition. ”—concludes Benjamin.
Whitecell Systems is continuing to work on the solution, which has already evolved into a new project under the North Jutland Business Lighthouse initiative, called the Green Methanol Power Generator.
