Fuel Cell Hire

Fuel cells are devices that convert chemical energy from a fuel into electricity through an electrochemical reaction, typically using hydrogen and oxygen. Unlike conventional engines, fuel cells generate electricity without combustion, producing water and heat as the only by-products, making them a clean energy source.

They are commonly used in transportation, stationary power generation, and portable electronics. Fuel cells offer high efficiency, low emissions, and quiet operation, and can provide continuous power as long as fuel is supplied, making them suitable for both industrial and remote applications.

Hiring a fuel cell system varies depending on its power output, duration of hire, whether ancillary equipment is included, and whether it’s supplied with operator support. Smaller, lower‑power units for backup or temporary power needs typically cost less, while larger commercial or industrial‑scale fuel cells command higher daily or weekly rates.

As a rough guide in the Australian market:

• Daily hire: Approx. $500 to $2,000+ depending on size and capacity.
• Weekly hire: Around $2,500 to $10,000+ for larger units or longer engagements.

Actual costs depend on system size (kW), fuel supply logistics, delivery, setup, and service support, so it’s recommended to request a tailored quote to accurately budget for your specific power requirements.

Fuel cells offer several advantages over conventional generators. Unlike diesel or petrol generators, fuel cells produce electricity without combustion, meaning they generate minimal emissions, are quieter, and have a smaller environmental impact.

Other benefits include:

• Higher efficiency in converting fuel to electricity.
• Continuous power supply as long as fuel is available.
• Lower maintenance due to fewer moving parts compared with traditional engines.
• Compact and modular designs, suitable for confined or remote locations.

These advantages make fuel cells ideal for applications requiring clean, reliable, and quiet power, such as remote sites, industrial operations, or environmentally sensitive areas.

The runtime of a fuel cell depends on its fuel capacity, power output, and operating conditions. Generally, as long as a continuous fuel supply (such as hydrogen or other suitable fuel) is provided, a fuel cell can operate indefinitely.

For portable or hire units, runtime is often specified per fuel refill or tank, which can range from several hours to multiple days depending on the system size and load. Planning fuel supply and refuelling logistics is essential to ensure uninterrupted power for the intended application.

Yes, fuel cells are significantly quieter than conventional generators because they produce electricity through an electrochemical reaction rather than combustion. This means there are no loud engines or exhaust noise, making fuel cells ideal for noise-sensitive environments such as urban areas, hospitals, or indoor industrial sites.

While some auxiliary components like pumps or fans may generate minor noise, overall, fuel cells operate much more quietly, improving worker comfort and reducing noise pollution on-site.