The license and joint development agreement will see Advent integrate its membrane technology into EH’s HTPEM stack with a specific focus on developing systems for data centre back-up, telecoms, and microgrids.

EH currently manufactures stacks ranging from 5kW to 320kW, as well as full fuel cell systems between 20kW and 250kW.

Advent Chief Technology Officer, Emory DeCastro, said by combining the firm’s membranes with EH’s stack engineering, they could deliver “high-performance fuel cell solutions that meet the growing demand for reliable and sustainable energy.”

The companies argue that HTPEM systems are “well-suited” to stationary applications.

HTPEM fuel cells operate at between 120ºC and 200ºC, which can simplify water management and generate exportable waste heat. They can also use a wider range of fuels, including methanol, compared to low-temperature systems.

However, the increased temperatures can accelerate the degradation of membranes.

Demand for behind-the-meter power solutions is growing with the fast expansion of AI data centres and long grid connection delays.

Hydrogen fuel cells have been positioned as a potential backup power solution. However, systems operable on other fuels like methanol and natural gas are growing in popularity, as hydrogen’s use faces major cost and logistics barriers.

Solid oxide fuel cell licensor Ceres said it will be focusing on natural gas opportunities for the near-term, while US-based ECL shifted its focus from pure hydrogen-fuelled data centre power solutions when it unveiled a “fuel-flexible” system.