The unique anaerobic operation of Neah Power's direct methanol fuel cells minimizes or eliminates the impact of air quality, which is of particular relevance to the water-based environment in which Hobie’s products are used.

Hobie Cat believes that when Neah Power’s methanol fuel cells become operational in its boats, it will open up new doors for the global business, which includes its eponymous surfboards, sailboats, kayaks, fishing boats and peripheral products.

Neah Power Systems is developing long-lasting, efficient and safe power solutions for the military and for portable electronic devices, operating on methanol fuel. The company uses a unique, patented, silicon-based design for its micro fuel cells to offer higher power densities, lower cost and compact form-factors. The company’s micro fuel cell system can run in aerobic and anaerobic modes.