Toyota to assemble and distribute fuel cell power generators

In a step forward for fossil-fuel-free power generation for remote applications, Toyota Australia has inked a deal with French company EODev (Energy Observer Developments) to assemble and distribute the latter’s hydrogen fuel cell power generators.

The units, which can be used to provide power for off-grid applications like mining and construction sites, among others, will be assembled at Toyota Australia’s former car manufacturing facility at Altona, in Melbourne’s western suburbs.

Toyota will invest $3.27m in the venture, which will see EODev’s GEH2 power generators roll off the Altona production line in the first quarter of 2024.

The automotive brand will be the Australian distributor for the generators, with the units to be sold through retail partner Blue Diamond Machinery, which specialises in off-grid power solutions and will be the exclusive supplier of the GEH2.

Toyota Australia says it will also sell the power generators, with Toyota New Zealand its first customer.

The EODev GEH2 uses the same fuel cell system found in Toyota’s Mirai FCEV (fuel cell electric vehicle), with the first model to be rated at 110kVA. The unit produces zero carbon dioxide, nitrous oxide or particulate emissions, using a catalyst to convert hydrogen into electricity and water vapour.

Toyota says it will consider the production of higher-power models as the local market develops.

According to Toyota Australia President and CEO, Matthew Callachor, the brand is committed to furthering Australia’s fledgling hydrogen economy.

“Toyota fully supports the Australian federal and state governments’ drive in growing our hydrogen economy and is committed to exploring opportunities for our fuel cell technology well beyond its automotive use,” he said.

“This agreement signed today is not about a trial or pilot program, it is about concrete action that will improve Australian businesses’ access to stationary hydrogen fuel cell generators and help them reduce their carbon footprint.

“At the same time, our investment will help to build Australian skills and capabilities in hydrogen technologies in what is a rapidly growing industry that will help Australia meet its emission reduction targets,” Mr Callachor said.

EODev CEO Jérémie Lagarrigue said the partnership broke new ground, representing the first time the GEH2 had been assembled outside of France.

“The GEH2 generator has been in production since 2021 and is currently sold across several European markets, in North America, in the Middle East, and in Australia. We see a fast-growing potential for its use in this part of the world” Mr Lagarrigue said.

“We are pleased to have the support of Toyota Australia in being able to assemble the generators locally, which will enable more customers to access this clean technology and help reduce noxious emissions from local power generation.”

The generators can also be used for applications like EV charging stations, events, and as emergency backup for hospitals.