Panasonic has introduced the H2 Kiboi, a 5 kW pure hydrogen fuel cell generator that generates power through a chemical reaction using high purity hydrogen and oxygen in the air. The device is designed to meet the needs of small-scale commercial facilities. The fuel cell system operates on pure hydrogen with a density of more than 99.97 per cent and an electrical efficiency of 56 per cent. The system measures 834 x 417 x 1,766 mm in length and weighs 205 kg. The new product can be used at elevations of up to 500 metres and in operating temperatures ranging from -10 to 40 °Celsius.
It can generate electricity and utilise up to 2.5 kW of its capacity for at least 120 hours during power outages, adding to business continuity planning. Reportedly, the device can be started in about one minute, which is useful for reacting to peak cut control, when generators must respond quickly.