Sysco has been involved in the development and field testing of GenDrive power units since 2001. Its early interest has allowed the company -which operates more than 190 distribution centers in North America -to see for itself the financial, operational, and environmental benefits that fuel cell solutions offer.
For Walmart Canada, the GenDrive systems will be integrated into trucks manufactured by Crown Equipment Corporation. Both perishable and freezer goods will be distributed in a newly built facility to support retail stores in western Canada. The GenDrive freezer units will operate in conditions as low as -29Β°C (-20Β°F).
The decision to move forward with hydrogen-powered trucks and supporting infrastructure at the start allows for the possibility of future use at other existing sites. The use of GenDrive hydrogen fuel cells provides companies with a power solution that aligns with environmental initiatives.
The systems were scheduled to begin shipping in June, and will be operational at Walmart Canada this fall.
Air Liquide was awarded the contract to supply the hydrogen, fueling station and infrastructure to power the Walmart Canada fleet. Air Liquide Canada will design a dedicated solution for materials handling, and integrate compact indoor hydrogen dispensers throughout the distribution center. The dispensers will be able to supply a total of over 100 kg per day, and fill vehicles in less than two minutes.
Plug Power expects to ship 1100 GenDrive units in 2010. Other customers receiving products for materials handling applications include United