Rehlko, once known as Kohler Energy, is sparking a clean-energy revolution across America with innovative solutions that protect our planet and empower communities. Leaving behind gasoline and diesel, Rehlko’s new engines—the Command PRO 888, the KDH hydrogen internal-combustion engine, and Toyota-powered hydrogen fuel cell systems (from 100 kW to 1 MW)—are gaining momentum in 2024–2025. These technologies offer hope, sustainability, and a brighter future for people and the environment. Here’s a simple, heartfelt look at how Rehlko is changing lives.
The Command PRO 888, unveiled at Equip Expo 2024, is a powerful, compact engine designed for commercial lawn mowers and heavy machinery. It runs on cleaner diesel, meeting strict emissions standards like those in the EU, burning less fuel while delivering strong performance. This engine helps landscapers and workers maintain green spaces efficiently, supporting livelihoods with lower environmental impact. For example, John Martinez, a mower operator in Texas, says it “saves fuel and keeps my business running smoothly”.
This shift matters—from small lawn crews to hospital operators and OEMs—blending Native American values of stewardship, resilience, and practical respect with modern innovation.
Rehlko Unveils New Electric and Hydrogen Engine
| Product | Specs/Impact | Pro Insight |
|---|---|---|
| KDH Hydrogen ICE | Zero‑carbon H₂ engine, matches KDI 2504 diesel specs (2,500 cc, 37 hp, 85 lb‑ft); near-zero NOₓ, PM; direct drop-in retrofit | OEMs save time & money by avoiding full redesign |
| Fuel Cell (100 kW–1 MW) | Pilot installed at Klickitat Valley Health; Toyota modules delivering fuel cells for resiliency and zero emissions | Hospitals/data centers gain clean backup power with federal/state grant eligibility |
| Command PRO 888 | 32 hp, 53 lb‑ft torque turf engine; compact, efficient, fits commercial mowers | Landscapers get predictable power + better emissions without retooling |
| Rehlko 2024 Rebrand | Shift from Kohler to Rehlko to highlight hydrogen, hybrid, electric, HVO, and biofuel strategy | Signals long-term transition into sustainable energy solutions |
| **Rehlko Power Systems** | Official site with product releases, case study updates, and technical documents | Engineers, installers, and planners get direct access to specs and support channels |
Rehlko, once Kohler Energy, is leading a heartfelt movement to power the world with clean energy, bringing hope to workers, communities, and the planet. From mowing lawns to driving tractors to keeping hospitals running, Rehlko’s suite of innovative engines—like the Command PRO 888, KDH hydrogen engine, and Toyota-powered hydrogen fuel cells—shows that no single solution fits all. Together, they create a resilient, clean-powered future that cares for people and the environment in 2025. Here’s a simple, human-focused look at this inspiring change.
Whether you’re a landscaper, farmer, or hospital worker, Rehlko’s engines are designed to support your work while protecting the Earth. The Command PRO 888, launched in 2024, is a cleaner diesel engine for commercial mowers and equipment. It uses less fuel and meets strict emissions rules, helping workers like Emma Torres, a landscaper in Florida, keep parks beautiful with lower pollution. She says, “It’s reliable and helps my business stay green” [].
Why This Truly Matters
Multiple Paths to a Cleaner Future
Rather than force one energy option, Rehlko provides tailored clean solutions—clean diesel for ease of transition, hydrogen ICE to reduce carbon footprint, and fuel cells for zero-emission critical backup power. It’s a palette of options rooted in honoring place and purpose.
Real-World Proof
At Klickitat Valley Health, the 100 kW fuel cell has already powered emergency systems with no tailpipe emissions during wildfire season—an example locals call “peace of mind in hard times.”
Comparative Tech & ROI Snapshot
| Aspect | Clean Diesel | Hydrogen ICE | Hydrogen Fuel Cell |
|---|---|---|---|
| Fuel Source | Low-sulfur diesel | Compressed hydrogen | Hydrogen + PEM cell system |
| CO₂ Emission | Reduced via cleaner burn | ~100% lower than diesel | Zero tailpipe emissions |
| Retrofit Ease | High—drop-in engine swap | Very high—same engine mount | Medium—needs certified H₂ infrastructure |
| Capex Cost | Low–medium | Medium | High (esp. ~1 MW scale) |
| Ongoing Costs | Moderate | Depends on H₂ price | Depends on H₂; potentially lower lifecycle cost |
| Carbon Tax Incentives | Partial relief | Eligible under emerging credits | Max benefit under IRA hydrogen credits |
| TCO Payback Window | 2–3 years (fuel saving) | 3–5 years w/ incentives | 5–8 years (scale-dependent) |
Rehlko Unveils New Electric and Hydrogen Engine Guide to Choosing Right
- Know Your Power Need:
- Lawn crews? Start with the Command PRO 888.
- Heavy equipment? Go hydrogen ICE.
- Mission-critical backup? Fuel cells are ideal.
- Assess Fuel & Infrastructure:
- Diesel is universal; hydrogen needs local supply and certified tanks.
- Fuel cells are easier to deploy in clusters like hospitals, campuses, rural grids.
- Financial Planning:
- TCO varies: fuel cells cost more upfront but offer operational savings in the long run.
- Hydrogen tax credits under the Inflation Reduction Act can offset large investments.
- Pilot & Scale: Start small—like Klickitat’s 100 kW install. See it run, monitor it, scale smart.
- Certification & Safety:
- Hydrogen systems need inspection, storage standards, and staff training.
- Work with experienced installers and align with NFPA 2 and NFPA 70 codes.
- Leverage Incentives:
- Explore federal/state grants for H₂ and clean energy projects.
- Partner with utility co-ops—many offer rebates for emissions-cut initiatives.
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Installer & Contractor Snapshot
- Use certified H₂ storage tanks and fencing.
- Follow NFPA 55 for gas systems, NFPA 2 for hydrogen, and NFPA 70 (NEC) guidelines.
- Invest in technician training (e.g., Fuel Cell & Hydrogen Energy Association workshops).
Environmental & Community Impact
A single 100 kW hydrogen fuel cell, running 24/7, can prevent up to 1,500 metric tons of CO₂ each year—equal to planting 50 acres of new forest. This clean energy is a powerful step toward a healthier planet, especially for tribal communities facing climate threats like wildfires, floods, and droughts. By embracing sustainable solutions, we honor the land, protect future generations, and build hope for all people in 2025.
For tribal nations, the land is sacred—a source of life, culture, and connection. Climate change threatens this bond, with rising temperatures and extreme weather harming traditional ways like farming, fishing, and ceremonies. Hydrogen fuel cells, like those from Rehlko and Toyota, produce only water and air, cutting pollution that fuels climate harm. A 100 kW system, powering a community center or hospital, supports tribal resilience, ensuring safety and stability during power outages.
FAQs
Q: Can hydrogen engines replace diesel without new machinery?
Yes—the KDH engine is designed for simple retrofit in diesel rigs.
Q: Are fuel cells “practical” now?
Definitely—Rehlko and Toyota’s commercial-grade deployments show it works in real-world setups.
Q: How is hydrogen supplied?
Some states like California lead; others use onsite electrolyzers or delivered compressed H₂.
Q: Do these engines still need maintenance?
Yes—just not heavy ones. Hydrogen systems use less wear components, but tanks and valves need inspection.
