TIA Fuel Cell Reference Guide

Make Informed Decisions Using the TIA Fuel Cell Reference Guide

As an alternative to competing power solutions, there are more than 1,000
stationary fuel cells for backup power currently deployed across the U.S., and that number is rapidly growing. Fuel cells provide the ICT industry clean and reliable power. Unlike other backup power options, fuel cells have almost no moving parts and require minimal maintenance.

To help entities tap into ways to use fuel cells for backup power, a critical resource titled the "TIA Fuel Cell Reference Guide: Compliance with Regulations, Codes, and Standards for the Deployment of Stationary Fuel Cells" was developed by the TIA Focus Group on Fuel Cell Standards for ICT Infrastructure to address power issues related to cell towers. The group produces documents and technical leadership on fuel cell issues to advance and inform the ICT industry on clean, sustainable, and reliable power.

The Guide is presented in a succinct, clear and accessible format and enables companies to:

  • Make informed decisions when deploying stationary fuel cells as backup power units at cell tower sites
  • Move more quickly through the permitting and approval process when deploying fuel cell power systems
  • Understand the regulations, codes and standards that must be met for safe and compliant installations - typically one of the largest barriers to further deployment of stationary fuel cell technologies

In addition to cell tower sites, fuel cell technology can be used to provide either back up or primary power at other locations including:

•    Sites where temporary power is required
•    Sites housing computer equipment that require high levels of reliability
•    Sites where combustion equipment is prohibited or restricted due to concerns over worker exposure or equipment damage
•    Sites where air pollution control regulations require zero emissions technology

This Guide will provide necessary information for any company, vertical industry or market needing to experience the benefits of fuel cells. Potential users include, but are not limited to:

•    Fuel cell providers
•    Fuel cell installers
•    Fuel cell fuel manufacturers
•    Tower designers and installers
•    Engineering design firms
•    Industrial gas companies
•    Code officials reviewing permit applications for stationary fuel cells
•    Community planners and zoning boards
•    Concerned citizens

The Guide covers the following topics:

•    Basic Schematic Showing Equipment and Purpose of Equipment
•    Summary Codes and Standards Sheet
•    Generally Applicable Codes and Standards 
•    Fuel Supply Considerations and General Guidance on Site Selection
•    Permitting Process

THANKS TO ALL WHO CONTRIBUTED!

Air Liquide

Air Products & Chemicals

Altergy

Ballard Power Systems

BNC Energy, LLC

BTI/Fuel Cells 2000

Burns & McDonnell

ClearEdge Power

CommScope

Department of Energy

Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association

Hy9 Corpration

IGX Group

Microsoft Corporation

National Renewable Energy Laboratory

ReliOn

Serenergy

Trulite, Inc.

U.S. Department of Transportation