Protonex gets fuel cell subcontract from Cummins

Southborough, Mass.-based Protonex Technology (LSE: PTX) said yesterday it received a subcontract from Cummins Power Generation to supply solid oxide fuel cell power systems.

Cummins Power Generation, a unit of Cummins (NYSE: CMI), plans to use the Protonex cells as part of a U.S. Department of Energy program to develop a diesel-fueled solid oxide fuel cell system for on-highway truck auxiliary power.

"Fuel cells have significant potential to provide our customers with improved auxiliary power performance," said Richard Eikill, general manager of consumer business at Cummins Power Generation.

"Protonex develops fuel cell technology that can operate on diesel and other conventional fuels that are well supported in our target markets, making them an ideal team member in this venture," said Eikill.

Protonex said integrating solid oxide fuel cell auxiliary power systems in trucks would allow a significant reduction in main engine idle operation, resulting in fuel savings and emission reductions.

"We are very proud to have been chosen by Cummins to supply our solid oxide fuel cell products for this program," said Scott Pearson, CEO of Protonex.

"Teaming with a global power industry leader on this development program will have a significant impact on our SOFC commercialization program, and we hope this effort will open the door to continued collaboration," said Pearson.

The new system is expected to supply base power for air conditioning, heating, lighting and other loads.

Protonex said the fuel cells will run on common organic fuels, such as propane, gasoline and diesel, enabling the deployment of the system into commercial markets without requiring access to hydrogen or other specialty fuel sources.

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