Toyota and FuelCell Energy unveil a technological advance that promises to be a game-changer when it comes to sustainability and emissions reduction.
FuelCell Energy and Toyota unveil innovative “Tri-Gen” system at the Port of Long Beach
The recently completed “Tri-gen” system is a world first in the field of energy production. Developed by FuelCell Energy and deployed at Toyota at the Port of Long Beach, this system is capable of producing three valuable products from targeted biogas: renewable electricity, renewable hydrogen, and usable water.
Toyota doesn’t just want to be a leader in the automotive sector. With the introduction of the Tri-gen system, the company shows its determination to make a contribution to sustainability. This system will enable Toyota Logistic Services (TLS) Long Beach to become the Port’s first vehicle processing facility powered by 100% locally generated renewable energy.
How does Tri-Gen work?
FuelCell Energy’s fuel cell technology will support Toyota’s port operations through an electrochemical process that converts renewable biogas into electricity, hydrogen, and water. This happens without combustion, so the emission of pollutants into the air is practically zero.
Notable tri-gene data includes:
- Production of 2.3 MW of renewable electricity.
- Daily production of up to 1,200 kg of hydrogen.
- Producing more than 4,500 gallons of water per day used by TLS Long Beach to wash vehicles, significantly reducing consumption of local water sources.
Advantages
The Tri-Gen system doesn’t just benefit Toyota. Supporting TLS operations at the Port of Long Beach is expected to reduce CO emissions by more than 9,000 tons per year.
Mario Cordero, CEO of the Port of Long Beach, emphasized the importance of renewable hydrogen in the shipping industry’s transition to zero-emission equipment.
Additionally, the Tri-Gen system has the potential to reduce diesel consumption in port operations by more than 1,500,000 liters per year, and excess electricity will be supplied to the local utility, Southern California Edison.
