Energy solutions provider Advent Technologies has received a $2.8-million contract for the US Department of Defense’s fuel cell power source production.
The agreement orders the development of advanced manufacturing methods to enhance production capacity while sustaining the quality of the company’s Honey Badger 50 (HB50) system.
HB50 is a compact, portable fuel cell solution that powers military assets such as surveillance systems, communication devices, and laptops for covert operations.
The power source leverages thermal capabilities to secure missions in ambient environments with temperatures from under zero to more than 40 degrees Celsius (32-104F).
It uses liquid, biodegradable methanol as hydrogen carrier fuel to support the US military’s lightweight electricity generation requirements for modern warfare.
Additionally, HB50 is equipped with Advent’s proprietary Ion Pair Membrane Electrode Assembly that aids the fuel cell solution with electrochemical reactions to separate electrons.
This approach allows HB50 to deliver dependable power for critical off-grid field applications.
“This new contract is a resounding testament to the DoD’s unwavering confidence in Advent’s innovative fuel cell technology as the go-to portable power solution for critical defense applications,” Advent Technologies CEO and Chairman Dr. Vasilis Gregoriou stated.
“We are delighted that the DoD has chosen Advent as a pivotal partner in its clean energy journey. The entire Advent team eagerly anticipates the substantial impact that HB50 will make as we remain at the forefront of portable fuel cell advancements.”
Tactical Expeditionary Energy Generation for US Army
The award follows an initial $2.2-million contract signed with Advent in September 2023 for the Soldier Tactical Expeditionary Power – Energy Generation Services initiative.
This project seeks modernized storage, distribution, and management of energy capabilities to support the US Army’s “demanding defense mission requirements.”
“We firmly believe in a world where fuel cells become the primary power option for challenging defense mission requirements, and we very much look forward to contributing to this new reality with our portable fuel cells,” Advent Technologies General Manager Vasilis Kopelas said during the September awarding.
“This enhanced version with Advent’s Ion Pair technology will set new benchmarks for fuel cell efficiency, longevity, and power density, providing reliable power both practically and sustainably for critical field operations.”
