Victoria gives boost to a tiny powerhouse

Published Date: 23 May 2009
SMALL BUT BEAUTIFUL

CERAMIC Fuel Cells, an energy company listed in Australia and on London's Aim, yesterday launched a "mini power station".The new unit – called BlueGen – converts natural gas to electricity and heat via ceramic fuel cells.BlueGen, which is about the size of a dishwasher, is designed to work in homes and offices, providing "low-emission electricity and hot water" and saving money.Ceramic Fuel Cells has signed a memorandum with VicUrban to showcase BlueGen units in the organisation's housing developments and wants to put the units on sale in the Australian state of Victoria early next year.BlueGen was unveiled yesterday by John Brumby, the premier of Victoria.Brendan Dow, Ceramic Fuel Cells' managing director, said: "Our units are far more efficient and produce far less carbon dioxide and other emissions than traditional electricity generators like coal-fired power stations."Ceramic Fuel Cells, which has a market cap of about £85 million, was founded in 1992 with backing from the Australian government and mining giant BHP Billiton. The company floated in Australia in 2004 and on London's Aim in 2006.