Nimbus Power Systems

Based in Groton, Connecticut, Nimbus Power Systems, Inc. is a developer of zero-emission fuel cell systems targeting the heavy-duty mobility and stationary power markets. The company was established in 2013 by Michael Gorman and Matt, who now serve as CEO and CTO, respectively. Their collaboration began at the United Technologies Fuel Cell unit, where they accumulated extensive experience in Proton-Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells. A notable achievement from their prior work includes developing a fuel cell for a municipal bus that surpassed the Department of Energy's durability targets, running for 31,000 hours. This background prompted them to found Nimbus Power Systems with the objective of engineering fuel cells that were more compact, lighter, and more cost-effective than existing solutions.

The firm's business model centers on designing and integrating fuel cell engines as direct replacements for traditional diesel engines in demanding applications like long-haul trucking and coach buses. Revenue is generated through the sale of these systems and via technology licensing agreements. The company's technology has attracted significant partners, including a joint development agreement with Toshiba to combine Nimbus's patented stack technology with Toshiba's mass production expertise. Furthermore, Nimbus has licensed its fuel cell technology to Blue Origin for space applications, highlighting its dual-use potential.

Nimbus Power Systems' core offering is its fuel cell engine, such as the NIMBUS200, which is built on several proprietary technologies. A patented cell design provides a long operational life, estimated at 30,000 hours, without requiring major overhauls. The system's architecture enhances cell performance and negates the need for a DC/DC converter, which reduces overall cost, weight, and volume while improving efficiency. A distinctive feature of their technology is a gravity-independent water management system that uses capillary and hydraulic forces, making it suitable for both terrestrial and zero-gravity environments. This specific feature was key to the licensing deal with Blue Origin, where the technology will be used to produce electricity, heat, and potable water for crewed space missions. The company has secured pre-seed financing led by Connecticut Innovations to scale its technology and demonstrate its viability in the heavy-duty transport market.

Keywords: zero-emission fuel cells, heavy-duty mobility, stationary power systems, diesel engine replacement, PEM fuel cell, hydrogen fuel cell technology, long-haul trucking solutions, clean transportation, Blue Origin partnership, Toshiba joint development, Michael Gorman, Connecticut Innovations, fuel cell durability, gravity-independent water management, advanced fuel cell engines, sustainable transport, decarbonization technology, energy systems, cleantech, electric power production