How to Decide Which Fuel Cell Type is Right for Your Application

by | Nov 20, 2025 | Alkaline Fuel Cells, Fuel Cells, P250i, WATT Remote

Backup Power When You Need It

RedHawk Energy Systems offers a diverse range of fuel cell technologies to meet varying power needs across multiple industries. Our P250i Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFC), WATT REMOTE™ SOFC, and Alkaline Fuel Cells (AFC) are all designed to provide reliable, clean, and efficient backup power when you need it most.

Use the chart below to understand the differences in wattage, key features and benefits, and industry applications to ensure you choose the right fuel cell type for your specific industry application.

Choosing the Correct Fuel Cell Type

Fuel Cell Type  Wattage Options  Key Benefits   Industry Applications 
P250i SOFC

250W

Compact, Propane/Natural Gas-Powered, Zero Maintenance, Operates In Extreme Temperatures

Railroads, Oil & Gas, Critical Infrastructure

WATT REMOTE™ SOFC 500W, 1.25kW Propane/Natural Gas-Powered, Zero Maintenance, Integrates With Existing Power Infrastructure Railroads, Oil & Gas, Critical Infrastructure
Alkaline Fuel Cells (AFC) 5kW+ Emissions-Free Power Source, High Efficiency, Platinum-Free Catalyst, Instant Start-Up Rail Telecom, Telecom, Electric & Water Utilities, Commercial Facilities, EV Charging Stations, Oil & Gas Utilities

When selecting a fuel cell solution, consider the following factors:

  • Power Requirements
  • Fuel Availability
  • Maintenance Needs
  • Integration Compatibility

RedHawk Energy Systems offers a range of fuel cell solutions to meet diverse power needs, ensuring you have a reliable backup power system in place during power outages caused by storms and extreme weather, natural disasters, technology failures, or accidents. 

3 Fuel Cell Types for Your Backup Power Applications

1. P250i Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (250W)

The P250i SOFC is a compact and efficient energy source that delivers 250W of DC power by converting chemical energy into electricity. It operates on either propane or natural gas and is designed for low maintenance, with no oil changes required. Its modern design allows it to operate over a wide temperature range, from -40°F to 158°F, and sit in standby mode for years until it is needed. The P250i is ideal for applications requiring reliable backup power in remote or off-grid locations.

Key P250i Specifications:

  • Operating Voltage: 12VDC, 24VDC, 48VDC
  • Charging Amps: 20A, 10A, 5A
  • Standby Power Draw: <0.05W
  • Design Target Life: 250 cycles / 3,000 hours
  • Operating Temperature: -40°F to 158°F
  • Propane Fuel Consumption: 0.25 lbs/hr
  • Natural Gas Fuel Consumption: 3.27m³/day

2. WATT REMOTE™ Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (500W & 1.25kW)

The WATT REMOTE™ SOFC series offers wattage options of 500W and 1.25kW, providing reliable backup power solutions. These SOFCs currently operate on propane or natural gas and are designed for zero maintenance. They can integrate seamlessly with existing power infrastructure, including the utility grid, batteries, solar charge controllers, DC-DC converters, and more. WATT REMOTE™ SOFCs are suitable for applications requiring higher power output.

Key WATT REMOTE™ 500W/12V Specifications:

  • Charging Amps: 41A
  • Propane Fuel Consumption: 0.36 lbs/hr
  • Natural Gas Fuel Consumption: 7.8ft³/hr

Key WATT REMOTE™ 500W/48V Specifications:

  • Charging Amps: 10A
  • Propane Fuel Consumption: 0.36 lbs/hr
  • Natural Gas Fuel Consumption: 7.8ft³/hr

Key WATT REMOTE™ 1.25kW/48V Specifications:

  • Charging Amps: 26A
  • Propane Fuel Consumption: 0.68lbs/hr
  • Natural Gas Fuel Consumption: 15.88ft³/hr

3. Alkaline Fuel Cells (AFC) – 5kW+

Alkaline Fuel Cells (AFCs) are known for their high efficiency and quick start-up capabilities. AFCs do not produce any emissions and are a “green” power source capable of operating in extreme cold and warm temperature environments. They can achieve up to 60% efficiency, with combined heat and power systems reaching up to 87%. AFCs are suitable for applications requiring higher power outputs and longer operational durations.

GenCell Energy AFC models

At RedHawk, we offer multiple GenCell Energy AFC models, ensuring you have the ideal product to meet your needs. We offer the:

  • GenCell Box™ for Backup Telecom Power
  • GenCell Rex™ for Backup Utility Substation Power
  • GenCell Fox™ for Off-Grid Prime Power utilizing Ammonia

Key Specifications:

  • Charging Power: 5kW and up
  • Fuel Options: Industrial Grade Hydrogen (99.95%), Ammonia
  • High Efficiency: Up to 60% (SOFC are 55-60%)
  • Catalyst: Platinum-free

Backup Power Fuel Cell Products

Whether you require a compact 250W unit for smaller load requirements or a high-efficiency 5kW AFC for larger mission-critical applications, RedHawk has a variety of backup power fuel cell products to fit your requirements.

Contact us today to learn more about our fuel cell products!

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