Our patent attorneys specialise in fuel cell and hydrogen technology
The current push towards decarbonisation, controlling greenhouse gas emissions and the 1.5°C climate goal means the hydrogen economy is about to see a surge in innovation and investment.
Numerous ways to maximise hydrogen’s potential as an energy carrier are being explored. These include hydrogen fuel cells (most notably hydrogen fuel cell vehicles and portable hydrogen fuel cells), renewable hydrogen, offshore wind turbine platforms and solar power systems designed for hydrogen production, advanced electrolysis and X-to-hydrogen-to-X, as well as new ways to distribute, liquify and compress it.
However, if these emerging technologies are to reach the market safely, the innovation involved must be protected to preserve their inventors’ competitive advantage. This is where our patent attorneys can help.
While fuel cell technology has arguably reached maturity, system and component development continues to address new applications and strive for improved efficiencies and reduced cost. Hydrogen is viewed as a high-growth area, both in terms of offering a welcome supplement to battery storage and as a viable alternative.
As a result, the level of competition between those endeavouring to find the best new ways to generate, store and use hydrogen in the most environmentally friendly way will only increase. This means you’ll need to be on the front foot when it comes to protecting and commercialising your innovation.
Our experienced patent attorneys have been involved in the draft or prosecution of hundreds of patent applications in the fuel cell systems and hydrogen storage fields. They also understand the application of hydrogen power in established industries. Currently this is primarily linked to the transport industry, but with so much potential it’s just a matter of time before other sectors work out how to benefit from this exciting and environmentally friendly energy source.
Our expertise isn’t just technical, however. We’re also very much focused on finding the right ways to maximise the commercial value of your ideas.
Our patent attorneys and IP solicitors will help you create an intellectual property (IP) strategy aligned with both your objectives and business plan. It will strike the right balance between protecting your existing IP rights, developing or acquiring any new rights you’ll need, and planning how to maximise the value of your rights and innovations.
We’ll make implementing your strategy as straightforward and effective as possible and ensure you haven’t overlooked any potentially lucrative innovation or ideas.
Our patent attorneys will:
- Conduct any prior art searches or Freedom to Operate searches to assist you in understanding the landscape around your invention or commercial activities
- Draft and file any required patent applications (and advise you when and how best to begin your applications)
- Manage the process of obtaining patents abroad
- Discuss alternative types of IP protection if they are better suited to your technology or commercial objectives
- Defend any oppositions in front of the European Patent Office or oppose any patents that potentially affect your freedom to operate
Our energy and cleantech team is unique in that it includes not only patent attorneys, but also experienced IP solicitors.
Our solicitors specialise in drafting and negotiating domestic and multi-jurisdictional agreements. They work with a growing number of clients in the cleantech space and will ensure all the commercial arrangements you need to put your business plan into effect are in place.
And, if your position or IP is challenged, our experienced litigators will guide you through the process within the UK, Europe and, if required, internationally.
Meanwhile, our trade mark attorneys will protect your brand and alert you to any unauthorised or unwelcome attention from your competitors.
Our multi-disciplinary team works together seamlessly. Our patent attorneys and IP solicitors will provide the range of IP and legal support you need to progress and create the highest level of value from your hydrogen-based innovation.
This comprehensive and collaborative model has never been as important.
Some of the world’s largest OEMs are increasingly looking to use hydrogen in their products. This means they need to either purchase the very specific knowledge they need, or partner with those who can provide it. Whether you plan to partner or sell, your IP and legal due diligence will play an important role in ensuring you realise the highest possible return from your technology and expertise.
If you’d like to discuss your hydrogen-based innovation with our patent attorneys or IP solicitors, please contact our specialist team today.
