Hydrogen project to create 10 jobs at KSC

Kennedy Space Center will be one of the locations British company Cella Energy Limited uses to develop low-cost hydrogen energy storage.

Cella has received a new round of financing led by a $1 million investment by Space Florida. This equity funding will support the development of four proof-of-concept projects for Cella's new safe, low-cost hydrogen storage technologies. The funds will expand operations and provide employment opportunities, both in the UK and in Florida.

Cella’s technology could lead to cheaper fuel, and it could improve energy security in the European Union, the U.S. and throughout NATO.

Cella plans to develop hydrogen storage technology in England and at KSC, where up to 10 new employees will be hired by the end of 2011.

Over 30 years NASA's operations at KSC have become one of the largest users of hydrogen, and the agency has expertise in this area. Cella’s technology allows hydrogen to be stored without high-pressure tanks and other potential safety hazards normally involved with hydrogen gas.

Hydrogen, which produces water when burned, is considered an ideal fuel to cut carbon emissions from road vehicles, which cause 25 percent of the carbon release in developed countries like the U.S. and the UK.

Initial funding for Cella came from Thomas Swan & Co Ltd, a specialist UK chemical company.

"To be announcing a second round of investment so soon after Cella Energy was formed is testament to the confidence investors have in our technology," said Stephen Voller, CEO of Cella Energy Limited.

Hydrogen could help meet the world's energy needs, Voller added.

"This is a great example of international cooperation to overcome some of the most serious challenges that face mankind today," said Cella’s Chief Scientific Officer, Professor Stephen Bennington.

"Companies like Cella are leading the way in keeping Florida a driving force in alternative energy. We will continue leveraging our financing relationships to help companies like Cella succeed," said Space Florida President Frank DiBello.