While USB battery packs are ubiquitous, they’re only any good if there’s somewhere to charge the battery pack in the first place. If there’s no electrical supply, options can be limited but with Intelligent Energy‘s new hydrogen fuel cell, Upp, there’s one more option available. Todd and Jamie get enthused with Julian Hughes of Intelligent Energy.

The Upp fuel call consists of a hydrogen micro generator and reusable fuel cartridge. One fuel cartridge gives approximately five full smartphone charges and is approved for carriage in aircraft. Each cartridge has a shelf-life of nine years, making it perfect for storage for emergencies. As it’s a fuel cell, not a battery, it doesn’t need charged from the electricity. Once turned on, the Upp with power devices at 1A via a full size USB port.

When spent the fuel cartridges can be recharged with hydrogen and extra cartridges can prolong time off grid. It’s perfect for those on long hiking trips or for those involved in emergency disaster relief.

The Upp is available in the UK for £149 including one cartridge. Additional cartridges are £49 and recharges costs £5.95. The Upp is expected to come to the US later in the year.

Interview by Jamie Davies of Health Tech Weekly and Todd Cochrane of Geek News Central for the TechPodcast Network.

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