Heating manufacturer Viessmann Group has acquired a 50 per cent stake in Swiss fuel cell-based CHP supplier Hexis AG.
Hexis specialises in micro CHP systems based on high-temperature solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs).

According to Viessmann: 'As complexity of SOFCs is relatively low, they have the potential to deliver high levels of electrical efficiency with low manufacturing costs in the long term. Together, Viessmann and Hexis aim to make SOFCs available for applications in existing buildings.

'Hexis has already tested and optimised more than 100 of its micro CHP units developed in recent years to supply domestic heat and power in field trials.'

The Viessmann Group has also announced its cooperation with Panasonic in the field of PEM fuel cells. The specific characteristics of this type of fuel cell are claimed to make it the ideal choice for single-family homes with low heating demands.

Viessmann again: 'Armed with both technologies - Panasonic's low-temperature PEM fuel cell and the high-temperature solid oxide fuel cell manufactured by Hexis - and its own experience in fuel cell development, Viessmann is in an excellent position in the stationary heat and power supply sector, which is expected to be the source of powerful impetus for the heating market in the future.'