IGN tenders methanol fuel cells after the tests carried out with CNH2 technology integration

CNH2 has participated in a collaborative project with the Spanish National Geographic Institute (IGN, Instituto Geográfico Nacional) and in coordination with the Spanish Polar Committee within the framework of the XXXVI Antarctic campaign. After the installation of a methanol fuel cells system in 2023, the results of the first tests and the acquisition (by tendering in this year 2024) of more methanol fuel cells by IGN confirm the success of the project.

The experimental installation of a methanol fuel cell system at one of the stations was intended to provide a constant supply of clean energy to the seismic station during the Antarctic winter, even in conditions of lack of sunlight that would make it impossible to use the installed photovoltaic panels. In this way, the aim was to ensure uninterrupted operation of the station, as well as communications for real-time transmission of its data.

Following an analysis of fuel cell system applications in polar regions, carried out by the Spanish National Hydrogen Centre (CNH2), the IGN acquired a direct methanol fuel cell model integrated into a system designed to operate at low temperatures.

Following tests at CNH2, where the fuel cell system was operating continuously in conjunction with a seismic station, it was concluded that the system met the prerequisites for field installation.

 

Finally, the equipment was installed and operated by NGI technicians at one of the seismic stations on Deception Island, close to the ‘Gabriel de Castilla’ base, used for monitoring and surveillance of seismic and volcanic activity. The system was installed and operated successfully throughout the polar winter.