Zeppelin Power Systems inaugurates fuel cell power generator

15. May 2025 | Hamburg, Germany

Hamburg's First Mayor, Dr. Peter Tschentscher, performed the inauguration

Today, Hamburg's First Mayor, Dr. Peter Tschentscher, inaugurated Zeppelin Power Systems' fuel cell power generator at the company's headquarters in Bahrenfeld. The generator can operate using hydrogen, offering a more climate-friendly way of generating electricity. The hydrogen used to operate the generator was provided by MB Energy GmbH, which is currently still known as Mabanaft Deutschland GmbH. The project team, the management of the Zeppelin Group, and invited guests were also present.

From the outside, it looks like a conventional container; however, inside, it reveals its true capabilities. This is the new fuel cell power generator from Zeppelin Power Systems. This half-size, 20-foot container is equipped with a control cabinet, a cooler, a lithium-ion battery, hydrogen cylinders, and a PEM fuel cell. This hybrid system combines various technologies to achieve sustainable diversification of energy sources.

"With the development of this fuel cell power unit, Zeppelin is demonstrating its technological expertise and commitment to sustainable solutions. We are combining our innovative strength with our responsibility as a foundation company, thereby making an important contribution to a climate-friendly future," says Matthias Benz, CEO of the Zeppelin Group.

Johannes Harding, Dr. Peter Tschentscher und Matthias Benz weihen das Brennstoffzellen-Stromaggregat gemeinsam ein

Zeppelin Power Systems is driving technological change

To achieve the European Union's goal of becoming climate-neutral by 2050, it is essential to test new technologies and expand markets. This is the only way to successfully transform the energy supply to be more sustainable and flexible. Hydrogen applications, such as Zeppelin Power Systems' fuel cell power generator, play a central role in this transformation. These applications can be used in decentralized grids or hard-to-reach areas, thus increasing the resilience and security of the power supply.

Zeppelin Power Systems' hybrid fuel cell and battery system is suitable for numerous industrial applications, including stationary, maritime, and rail applications, as well as emergency power supply.

From demonstrator to power generator

The project, known within the company as the "PEM demonstrator," began around three years ago. "We see ourselves as a system integrator that analyzes drive and energy solutions in terms of ecology and cost-effectiveness. This enables us to offer our customers custom combinations of combustion engines, fuel cells, and energy storage for ships, stationary applications, and rail and specialty vehicles," says Keno Leites, Head of the Fuel Cell Competence Center at Zeppelin Power Systems.

The hybrid fuel cell and battery system was first presented last year at the Hydrogen Technology Expo in Hamburg. It has since been developed into a complete fuel cell power generator, showcasing what such a concept can look like. The system has a nominal output of 50 kVA and can store approximately 30 kilograms of hydrogen in its cylinder bundles.

The hydrogen used for the test operation at the official inauguration was provided by MB Energy GmbH, which is currently still known as Mabanaft Deutschland GmbH.

"We are delighted that we were able to contribute to a more climate-friendly energy supply with our hydrogen at today's inauguration of the fuel cell power generator. Our collaboration with Zeppelin Power Systems exemplifies how innovative technologies and sustainable energy sources can work together to advance the energy transition," said Adrian Herberger, Head of Hydrogen & SAF at MB Energy Holding GmbH & Co. KG, currently still Mabanaft GmbH & Co. KG.

The official inauguration was held by Hamburg's First Mayor

"After all the work that has gone into developing this fuel cell power unit, we have reached a real milestone today," said Johannes Harding, Head of Strategy and Innovation at Zeppelin Power Systems. "It is a great honor for us to have the first mayor of Hamburg, Dr. Peter Tschentscher, at the official inauguration of our fuel cell power generator. His presence, as well as our collaboration with Mabanaft, underscores the significance of our project for Hamburg's development as a hydrogen hub."

The First Mayor was enthusiastic about the company's development. “The new fuel cell unit from Zeppelin Power Systems in Hamburg has many applications. It opens up many new possibilities for replacing fossil fuels with green hydrogen and reducing CO2 emissions. Through its research and development, Zeppelin Power Systems is supporting the energy transition and strengthening Hamburg's position as a hydrogen hub," said Dr. Peter Tschentscher.