Hydrogen Energy Storage | Endua - Clean Energy Solutions

Hydrogen-Based Power Generation: A Sustainable Alternative

Generators utilizing hydrogen represent an ecologically sound substitute for those traditionally fueled by diesel. However, the consistent availability of renewable sources like solar, hydroelectric, and wind power is often a limitation. Endua, a company headquartered in Brisbane, is enhancing the accessibility of hydrogen-based power generation through the implementation of electrolysis for hydrogen production and its subsequent storage for extended durations.

Technology Origins and Commercialization

The innovative technology underpinning Endua’s operations was initially developed at CSIRO, Australia’s premier national science organization. Its commercialization is being spearheaded by Main Sequence, a venture capital fund established jointly by CSIRO and Ampol, a leading Australian fuel provider.

Main Sequence employs a unique venture science methodology, beginning with the identification of a significant global challenge. Subsequently, they assemble the necessary technology, team, and investment to launch a startup capable of addressing the identified issue. This approach led to the recruitment of Paul Sernia, the founder of electric vehicle charger manufacturer Tritium, to serve as Endua’s chief executive officer.

Sernia is collaborating with Martin Duursma, a partner at Main Sequence, to bring the hydrogen-based power generation and storage technology, originating from CSIRO, to market. Ampol is positioned as Endua’s key industry partner in this endeavor.

Funding and Expansion Plans

Endua has secured $5 million AUD (approximately $3.9 million USD) in funding from Main Sequence, CSIRO, and Ampol. The company’s initial rollout is planned for the Australian market, with subsequent expansion into international territories.

According to Sernia, as reported to TechCrunch, Endua was founded to tackle a critical obstacle in the shift towards renewable energy: the challenge of storing renewable energy in substantial volumes over prolonged periods.

Modular Power Banks and Applications

Endua’s modular power banks are capable of delivering up to 150 kilowatts per unit, with scalability to accommodate diverse applications. These systems offer a viable alternative to conventional diesel-powered generators.

While batteries provide a backup power source, Endua’s primary objective is to provide renewable energy storage at a large scale. This aims to empower off-grid infrastructure and communities with self-sufficient power solutions.

Cost-Effectiveness and Reliability

“Hydrogen electrolysis technology has existed for some time, but further development is needed to meet the demands of commercial markets and achieve cost parity with established energy sources,” Sernia explained. “Our collaboration with CSIRO has yielded a technology that reduces costs relative to fossil fuels, enhances reliability, and simplifies maintenance in remote locations.”

Target Markets and Integration

The startup will initially focus on serving industrial clients, with plans to extend its reach to smaller businesses and residential customers. “A significant opportunity, largely unexplored, lies in addressing the needs of diesel generator users, such as regional communities, mining operations, and remote infrastructure,” Sernia stated.

In the agricultural sector, Endua’s solution could power equipment like boreholes and irrigation pumps. The power banks can be integrated with existing renewable energy systems, including solar and wind, to facilitate a cost-effective transition for users. The electrolysis process requires water, but only in minimal quantities.

Complementary Technologies and Long-Term Storage

“Batteries are effective for delivering dispatchable power in smaller increments and are a valuable component of the broader energy transition strategy,” Sernia clarified to TechCrunch. “However, our focus is on providing renewable energy storage at a large scale and for extended durations, ensuring reliable access to renewable energy for communities and remote infrastructure at any time.”

Ampol’s Role and Decarbonization Efforts

Ampol’s involvement with Endua aligns with its Future Energy and Decarbonisation Strategy. The company intends to test and commercialize Endua’s technology to benefit its 80,000 B2B customers, initially targeting the off-grid diesel generator market, which currently generates 200,000 tonnes of carbon emissions annually.

Matthew Halliday, Ampol’s managing director and CEO, expressed enthusiasm for the partnership in a press release, stating, “We are excited to be involved with Endua, which is part of our commitment to extending our customer value proposition by finding and developing new energy solutions that will assist with their energy transition.”