Fuel Cell Systems, a Hungerford-based hydrogen refuelling and fuel cell engineering company, has supported Swarco UK & Ireland to install the first fuel cell-powered roadside traffic management equipment on the National Highways network in the UK.
The deployment, at the M6 Lancaster Motorway Services, uses an Efoy Pro 12000 direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) to deliver continuous off-grid power to variable message signage (VMS) displaying fuel price information to motorists from the motorway verge.
Many roadside infrastructure locations face a common challenge: the need for dependable, low-voltage power without access to mains electricity. Traditional solutions such as continuously running diesel generators produce significant emissions, while micro-renewables are often unsuitable due to site constraints and weather conditions.
The Efoy Pro 12000 addresses this by acting as a smart battery charger, monitoring an attached battery and maintaining its voltage when charging is required. Fuel Cell Systems says this approach maximises battery life, system efficiency and fuel economy, reducing the cost of refuelling at off-grid and hazardous roadside locations. Unlike internal combustion engines, DMFCs do not combust fuel to generate power — they produce only water as a by-product, with near-zero carbon output, and have minimal moving parts, eliminating noise pollution and reducing routine maintenance requirements.
“With the support of Fuel Cell Systems, Swarco gained approval to install the first fuel cell powered equipment on the National Highways network,” says Paul Calvert, project support manager at Swarco UK & Ireland. “This was following a thorough review and approval process.”
Approval process
Dr Lee Juby, chief executive at Fuel Cell Systems, notes that on-the-ground technical support eased the path to approval. “Our local technical support and straightforward product integration helped greatly with the National Highways approval process. As highway authorities across the UK seek cleaner alternatives to diesel generators for off grid applications, fuel cells offer a proven, reliable solution. The success of this installation demonstrates that fuel cell technology can support the UK’s transport infrastructure sustainability goals.”
Swarco delivers smart traffic and transport technology focused on road safety, traffic flow and network performance across the UK and Ireland. The M6 installation is presented by both companies as demonstrating that DMFC technology can meet the reliability and regulatory requirements of National Highways-managed infrastructure, opening a potential route for wider adoption across the UK road network.
