Cleaner energy solutions uncovered

A more sustainable world is one with lower emissions. By lowering greenhouse gases (GHGs) — like carbon dioxide (CO2) and methane (CH4), which contribute to climate change; and oxides of nitrogen (NOx ), which contribute to ozone depletion; and particulate matter (PM), which impacts air quality — we can improve the resiliency of our lives. 

Decarbonizing with renewable energy and adopting cleaner technologies, can make an immediate positive impact.  A path to zero emissions has been made possible by innovation in the areas of advanced, internal combustion engines (ICEs), ICE battery-hybrids, fuel cell systems and battery-electric systems. 

Let’s dive into some of the solutions that will best shape your emissions journey to a greener future.

Advanced Internal Combustion Engines

Advanced ICE systems are a low capital and maintenance cost solution for high-load factor and high-utilization applications. Advanced ICE systems can be powered by low to zero carbon fuels such as hydrogen (H2). An increasingly popular energy carrier, hydrogen can be readily produced from water (H2O) via electrolysis using electricity, and it burns without releasing any carbon dioxide emissions. 

Advanced ICE engines, when combined with low or zero-carbon fuels, can reduce carbon quickly, with significant operational benefits as they have a familiar technology accompanied with robust service and maintenance infrastructures and supply chains.

ICE systems have been a mainstay in power generation for over 100 years and the power system of choice for the majority of applications such as mining, marine and rail. Advancements have led this to be one of the most economical solutions available through more efficient combustion technology and improved architectural design, leading to significantly lowering emissions and power density.

Internal Combustion Engine-Battery Hybrids

ICE-battery hybrid systems typically burn less fuel than conventional systems. Hybrids operate as systems that can draw upon the energy stored in a battery to supplement internal combustion engine produced power. Typically, it burns less fuel than a conventional system and has the advancement of an ICE system, which in combination with a battery makes it a key low carbon solution. ICE-battery hybrid systems are also readily available due to the maturing of the technology. 

A solution that reduces the consumption of fossil fuels and lowers emissions, ICE-battery systems are a reliable source of cleaner, uninterrupted power.

Fuel Cell Systems

Fuel cell technologies power everything from mobility applications to backup generators, offering reliability, high fuel efficiency, quiet operation and easy maintenance. 

Proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cell power modules are power dense and suited to both mobile and stationary applications. PEM fuel cell technology can be tailored to suit specific performance and environmental application needs. Fuel cell systems can also be combined with a battery to further enhance performance and technology applicability. 

Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) offer very high levels of efficiency while producing heat as a byproduct. These are particularly suited to stationary applications and are especially beneficial to applications or processes that can utilize the heat energy produced by an SOFC system.

Battery-Electric Systems

Battery-electric systems are moving people and communities to a more sustainable future. With advanced options, including all-electric power systems for rail, mining, marine and power generation. 

For a cleaner, quieter operation, this zero-emissions option is one that also provides economic, reliability and environmental benefits. In stationary format, electricity storage in batteries could help the utility grid to operate more efficiently, reduce the likelihood of brownouts during peak demand, and allow for more renewable resources to be built and used, according to the U.S. Environmental Protection Agency. 

The EPA notes that although storing electricity provides environmental benefits, it is important to consider that batteries use raw materials such as lithium and lead, which are potentially hazardous to the environment if disposed of or recycled improperly.

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As a technology company committed to meeting the world’s sustainability challenges, Cummins is driving innovation in the areas of diesel, natural gas, electrification, fuel cells, alternative fuels and advanced energy solutions. Check out our articles for more information on the systems that are powering a better world for today and tomorrow.