Alternative Energy Generation and Storage for Contested Environments

Piasecki is proposing a feasibility study of alternative energy generation, storage, and distribution through the application of a Reversible H2 fuel Cell system for contested environments.Ā Significant cost, weight, and logistical benefits can be made utilizing a novel High Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane (HTPEM) reversible hydrogen fuel cell systems because they can generate fuel and/or electricity simultaneously, efficiently, safely, and quietly.ĀĀ ĀAs the commercial industry continues to apply H2 fuel cells into vehicles, UAVÆs, eVTOLs, and power packs ¢ the need for H2 and CONOPS surrounding the application of H2 will be critical.ĀĀ This system allows for H2 and O2 generation utilizing solar power and a water source, while interoperating between electrical generation and H2 storage.Ā Ā This system will be mobile, standalone, and able to operate in remote and/or contested areas autonomously. Piasecki will develop a CONOPS for operation and integration of the Reversible Fuel Cell (RFC) in a contested environment.Ā Evaluation of this technology against other potential solutions will be made to compare and validate usefulness to the DON.Ā Additionally, Piasecki will mature the reversible fuel cell technology roadmap and generate a preliminary system design.Ā Finally, a preliminary design of a prototype system will be created with the intent to build and test in a follow-on Phase II activity.