Panasonic Powers UK Factory with Hydrogen-based Renewable Energy System
Panasonic Corporation has announced the successful installation of a hydrogen-based renewable energy power generation system at its Panasonic Manufacturing UK Ltd. (PMUK) facility in Cardiff, Wales. This marks a significant milestone in the company's effort to integrate clean energy technologies into its manufacturing operations.
The PMUK factory, which produces microwave ovens, now operates on 100% renewable energy. The system integrates three energy sources: 21 pure hydrogen fuel cell generators (5 kW each), 372 kW photovoltaic generators, and a 1 MWh storage battery. By using green hydrogen produced locally in the UK, the factory aims to decarbonize its operations.
Panasonic's system employs an advanced energy management system (EMS) to monitor electricity demand, weather fluctuations, and supply-demand balance, ensuring an uninterrupted energy supply. This EMS is set to become operational by March 2025.
Heat generated during electricity production will be repurposed for heating and hot water, utilizing a "water circulation air conditioning system." This integrated heat use, combined with existing electric boilers, aims to achieve energy efficiency of up to 95% for the hydrogen fuel cells.
Panasonic sees this demonstration project as a step toward advancing its hydrogen business in Europe while contributing to climate change measures and a carbon-neutral society.
Source: news.panasonic.com
