WASHINGTON, DC – Senator Sherrod Brown (D-OH) and Congressman John Boccieri (D-Alliance) today announced $1 million for Stark State College of Technology to upgrade the clean room at the Stark State Fuel Cell Prototyping Center (FCPC). The upgrade accommodates the Print Verification Line (PVL) equipment for the development of the Rolls Royce manufacturing pilot plant.

Brown and Boccieri worked with Representative Betty Sutton (D-Copley) and members of the Appropriations Committees to include funding for the project in the FY10 Energy and Water Development and Related Agencies Appropriations Bill which makes key investments in clean energy, energy independence, and water infrastructure.

This project brings critical fuel cell technology to the U.S. and Ohio in particular. This project provides Ohio students with training opportunities through internships and has potential to impact future decisions on manufacturing. That’s because Stark State College of Technology partners with Rolls Royce Fuel Cell Systems, Inc. to advance and commercialize a one-megawatt solid-oxide fuel cell, which when used in stationary power generation, will aid in smart-grid electric power. The PVL equipment is fundamental to the design and development of the commercial fuel cell project with Rolls Royce Fuel Cell Systems, Inc. Additionally, the accommodation of the PVL creates 10 additional jobs at the Stark State FCPC.

Last week, Roll Royce Fuel Cell Systems, Inc. announced the company is expanding its U.S. operations, consolidating their fuel cell research and development activities at the company's location at Stark State College of Technology in Jackson Township, North Canton, Ohio.

“Stark State is on the cutting edge of clean energy research in Ohio,” said Senator Brown. “These funds are an investment in Ohio’s future as the Silicon Valley of Clean Energy Manufacturing.”

“The amount of alternative energy our nation is able to produce is only limited by the amount of energy we are willing to invest,” said Congressman Boccieri. “Investments in a strong national energy policy and alternative energy projects like this one at Stark State prove our part of Ohio can lead the energy revolution.”

Stark State College of Technology President Dr. John O’Donnell said, “A well-educated workforce will be a major impetus for attracting alternative fuel companies to Ohio. This type of vision will provide Stark State fuel cell students with exceptional training and internship opportunities that will lead to their career success in this emerging industry. We are grateful to Senator Brown and Representatives Boccieri and Sutton for their work in securing passage of this appropriations bill.”

The bipartisan appropriations bill helps lay a new foundation for energy efficiency and economic prosperity – supporting good-paying jobs that cannot be outsourced, responsible economic growth and increased American competitiveness in the 21st Century global economy.  

This legislation will now go to the Senate before heading to President Obama’s desk for signature.

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