Fort Worth-based company Harnyss is set to revolutionize the hydrogen energy production and storage market with its proprietary technology. Using a patented process, Harnyss offers low-pressure hydrogen storage solutions using non-rare earth minerals, providing a safer alternative to lithium-ion batteries.
The technology enables the creation of a hydrogen power system that captures atmospheric water, producing hydrogen for storage until conversion into electricity. “Unlike a battery-powered storage unit, there’s no danger of fire, and the lifespan of the unit is also much longer than battery storage,” said Smith.
Compared to traditional methods, Harnyss stores hydrogen at 250 pounds per square inch, significantly lower than the usual 2,500 pounds per square inch.
The company’s Oasis storage unit serves as a versatile “microgrid-in-a-box,” catering to military, commercial, and residential needs. The system, housed in 20- and 40-foot containers, is ideal for mobile emergency backup power and can charge electric vehicles off the grid. Chris Boyer, a professor at the University of Texas at Arlington, notes the practicality of storing renewable energy with hydrogen.
“But with hydrogen, you can store that energy and then use it when you need it,” he said. “It makes it much more practical.”
Harnyss aims to focus initially on the market for mobile emergency backup power systems before expanding into other sectors. The company’s grand opening follows funding from Riverbend Energy Group’s energy transition fund, positioning it to capitalize on the growing hydrogen energy market, particularly in Texas.
“You really don’t want to charge electric vehicles using the grid because it takes too much power,” said Steve Pike, COO at the company. “With this system, you can store the energy on our system while the power is cheap, then charge the electric vehicles from our system, not straining the grid.”
The state recently received $70 million to build hydrogen fueling stations for trucks. With its eco-friendly byproduct of water, hydrogen aligns with efforts to improve air quality in regions like North Texas. As the hydrogen energy market expands, Harnyss anticipates growth, with plans to increase its workforce and make a significant impact in the industry.
