Redox Power Systems

About Redox Power Systems

Redox Power Systems, founded in 2012, is a developer of distributed energy generation systems commercializing a breakthrough in solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology. The technology originated from 25 years of research by Dr. Eric Wachsman, Director of the University of Maryland's Energy Research Center. Dr. Wachsman, an expert in solid-state batteries and fuel cells with a Ph.D. from Stanford University, brought extensive experience to the company's technological foundation. His journey into clean energy was sparked in high school by the first gas crisis, which impressed upon him the importance of energy independence.

The company is focused on developing on-site power generation solutions for commercial, industrial, and residential markets. Redox's business model centers on manufacturing and selling these systems, which provide a reliable power source independent of the traditional electrical grid. This approach targets clients seeking to decrease vulnerability to grid outages caused by natural disasters or other disruptions. The company's technology aims to be cost-competitive with traditional grid power.

Redox's core product is the "Cube," a power generation system based on its advanced SOFC technology. The initial model is a 25 kW stationary unit that operates on natural gas or propane. A key feature is the lower operating temperature of its fuel cells (~650°C), which allows for the use of less expensive materials like stainless steel, significantly reducing manufacturing costs. This lower temperature also contributes to a longer system lifetime. The technology boasts a high power density, meaning fewer cells are needed to generate the same output, further reducing size and cost. The Cube is roughly the size of a dishwasher and can be installed indoors or outdoors. It achieves a fuel-to-electricity conversion efficiency of 50-60%, and over 80% in combined heat and power (CHP) applications where waste heat is also utilized.

Significant milestones include receiving a $1 million award from the U.S. Department of Energy in 2019 to advance the H2@Scale concept for clean hydrogen production. This project leverages the company's technology for solid oxide electrolysis cells (SOEC), complementing its primary SOFC business by enabling the production of hydrogen from renewable energy sources. The company has been awarded numerous federal projects to advance its SOFC stack development, focusing on power density, reliability, and cost reduction.