Nuvera to Deliver Fuel Cell Power Systems and Hydrogen Refueling Station to H-E-B

Friday, Jun 12, 2009

BILLERICA, Mass., June 11 /PRNewswire/ -- Nuvera Fuel Cells announced today the sale of 14 PowerEdge(TM) fuel cell systems, along with a complete PowerTap(TM) Hydrogen Generator and Hydrogen Station, to H-E-B in San Antonio, Texas. The fuel cell units will power Class II forklift trucks used for the company's distribution center operations. Delivery is scheduled for September, 2009. Partial funding is being provided by the Department of Energy's hydrogen and fuel cell market transformation initiative.

The H-E-B partnership comprises a Total Power Solution for material handling installation which includes fuel cell hybrid PowerEdge systems for reach trucks and a PowerTap Hydrogen Generator and Hydrogen Station. The units will be placed in service at the San Antonio Perishables Distribution Center (PDC), and will enable H-E-B to validate lifecycle cost projections, productivity gains, and environmental benefits of the Total Power Solution.

"We are very pleased to be working in partnership with Nuvera," said Bobby Greene, Director of Fleet Maintenance. "H-E-B is committed to being a leader in the use of clean energy technologies, and we believe that hydrogen and fuel cells offer tremendous potential in reducing greenhouse gas emissions while simultaneously improving our productivity."

"This installation displays H-E-B's confidence in fuel cells for forklifts and its commitment to the environment," commented Roberto Cordaro, CEO of Nuvera Fuel Cells. "Nuvera is delighted to be working with a company of this stature, and looks forward to moving ahead with H-E-B as it considers the adoption of fuel cells throughout its distribution network. We are also grateful for the support provided by the federal government, which helps to overcome the higher costs of emerging clean energy technologies in the early phase of market introduction."

The Total Power Solution for material handling features PowerEdge, a fuel cell hybrid system that replaces standard lead acid batteries in forklift trucks, and PowerTap, a hydrogen generator and hydrogen station that provide cost effective on-site refueling. PowerTap produces hydrogen at a cost of $6/kg, based on average national utility rates, including federal incentives and all capital, operation and maintenance costs.

H-E-B, with sales of more than $15 billion operates more than 300 stores in Texas and Mexico. Known for its innovation and community service, H-E-B celebrated its 100th anniversary in 2005. Recognized for its fresh food, quality products, convenient services, and a commitment to environmental responsibility and sustainability, H-E-B strives to provide the best customer experience at everyday low prices. Based in San Antonio, H-E-B employs more than 70,000 Partners and serves millions of customers in more than 150 communities. For more information, visit www.heb.com.

Nuvera Fuel Cells is a global leader in the development of fuel cell systems and fuel processors for both end users and OEMs. Nuvera provides clean, safe, and efficient products for industrial vehicles and equipment in addition to furthering the development of power systems for automotive and transportation applications. www.nuvera.com

Source: PR Newswire