U.S. Representative G. K. Butterfield
1st District of North Carolina
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Contact: Ken Willis |
Butterfield to Announce Major Funding for Microcell
Tarboro, N.C. – Congressman G. K. Butterfield will announce major federal funding for Robersonville-based advanced fuel cell battery project at Edgecombe Martin County Electric Cooperatives where one the fuel cells is operating on Tuesday, April 7.
The Robsersonville-based Microcell Corporation is the world leader in proton exchange membrane (PEM) microfiber fuel cells that operate on a cylindrical platform for applications ranging from back-up power to automotive. The company’s extrusion-based scalable process for cost-effective, large-scale production distinguishes it from other fuel cell technologies.
Fuel cells are electrochemical devices that convert chemical energy directly into electrical energy. Unlike batteries, which convert chemical energy stored within the battery, fuel cells continue to deliver electrical energy as long as fuel is supplied. Hydrogen is one of the primary fuel sources for fuel cells, and when operated with hydrogen, the only byproducts of fuel cells are heat and clean water. This technology will not only help reduce green house gas emissions, but it will also help decrease our dependence on foreign oil.
Since Microcell began its research and development in 2000, many companies, including North Carolina Electric Membership Corporation, Progress Energy, Duke Energy and Dominion North Carolina have discovered the value of Microcell’s technology and have invested in the company.
A partnership with Edgecombe-Martin County Electric Membership Corporation and the Martin County Economic Development Corporation resulted in a beneficial strategic alliance as well as a zero interest loan to provide resources to help Microcell establish its manufacturing facility in Martin County.
Some employees began working at the Robersonville manufacturing facility in the spring of 2007. Employees are being trained in teams, and more employees begin working at the facility every couple of months. Based on a conservative start-up schedule, this facility will provide 40 new jobs within 12 months, 80 jobs within 36 months and 120 jobs within 84 months.
WHAT: Congressman Butterfield announces federal funding for Microcell
WHEN: Tuesday, April 7, 9 a.m.
WHERE: Edgecombe Martin County Electric Cooperative, 679 N.C. Highway 33 E., Tarboro, NC
