Who We Are
IdaTech is a global leader in the development of environmentally friendly fuel processing technology and fuel cell systems for stationary and portable electric power generation. Our products are essential in a world hungry for ever more electrical power, yet committed to cleaning up the environment. In this world of converging needs, IdaTech and our strategic partners are exploring a number of commercial applications, including:
- Portable and backup power
- Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS)
- Consumer (RV and marine) power
- Residential power
- Hydrogen generation appliances
These first commercial products are comprised of three major subsystems: the proton-exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell; a fuel processor for converting conventional fuels into the hydrogen needed by the fuel cell, and the balance of plant components. The balance of plant integrates the processor and fuel cell and converts the DC power into usable AC power. The systems produce electricity and heat with very little noise, vibration or emissions.
At the heart of the fuel cell system is our patented fuel processor, capable of converting methanol into greater than 99.9% pure hydrogen with less than 1 part per million carbon monoxide. Additionally, IdaTech is accelerating its ability to reform other conventional fuels including natural gas, propane, diesel and kerosene.
Increasingly, other fuel cell system integrators are seeking our patented processor because of its compact size, low cost and high efficiency. Allied Business Intelligence in its 1999 fuel cell market analysis said the fuel processor is the cornerstone of the industry, and the companies with the best processors will dominate the markets. With the introduction of its FPM 20™ in April 2002, IdaTech is leading the way with the commercialization of this important component of the fuel cell system.
Today, IdaTech is rapidly building on the technical know-how achieved since its inception in 1996. During this time, the company has incorporated its processor and a fuel cell stack into self-contained 3 kW power generation package capable of supplying all the electrical needs of a 2,500-square-foot home. That accomplishment attracted the attention of the Bonneville Power Administration, which agreed to purchase 110 prototype units for development and testing in various applications. Additionally, IdaTech has developed a fully integrated 1 kW fuel cell system.
We are building strategic relationships with private industry, market leaders with established channels of distribution, and with the electric utility industry. In 1999, IdaTech joined the IDACORP, Inc. (NYSE: IDA), family of companies that include Idaho Power Company, a regulated utility, and Idacorp Technologies, a non-regulated subsidiary of IDACORP. Backed by more than $2 billion in assets, IDACORP is committed to keeping IdaTech on the leading edge of what analysts consistently predict will be a future of unparalleled growth.
In 2000, IdaTech formed a strategic alliance with Tokyo Boeki to introduce our components and systems to markets in Japan and Asia. In addition to representing IdaTechs interest in Asia, Tokyo Boeki also made an equity investment in the company in anticipation of a long-term relationship.
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