BOS digital radio network in Bavaria: 44 base stations with fuel cell NEA

In the course of setting up the network for digital public authority radio in Bavaria, around 900 radio sites were set up. At up to 44 of these base station locations, the power supply is secured with fuel cell emergency power systems (FC-NEA), taking into account the increased requirements, including in pre-alpine and alpine regions of the Free State. The FC-NEA will provide the emergency power supply for these digital radio sites for a period of 72 hours.

Among other things, the special framework conditions mentioned above have an influence on the energy requirements of the radio sites, the operation and maintenance of the fuel cell systems and the hydrogen logistics. Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells are used, which are operated in an environmentally friendly manner with hydrogen.

The focus of the project is on the extended demonstration of the maturity of this fuel cell technology in a power range from 4 to 8 kW under climatically demanding conditions and with difficult accessibility.

Furthermore, the operation of the FC-NEA will be tested in detail within the framework of this project, and the associated service and logistics concepts will be examined for their suitability for practical use. This funding project is intended to demonstrate the market readiness of fuel cell technology, especially under increased requirements, to provide reliable proof with regard to low operating costs in regular operation and to provide maximum reliability in the event of a power failure.