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Renewable Energy
Hydrogen
and Fuel Cells
In principle, a fuel cell operates like a battery.
It will produce energy in the form of  electricity
and heat as long as hydrogen is supplied. A fuel
cell consists of two electrodes sandwiched around
an electrolyte. Oxygen passes over one electrode and
hydrogen over the other, generating electricity, water,
and heat.
A
recent survey indicates a growth of over 55% in
the number of fuel cell systems produced globally in
2004, in comparison to 2003. Fuel cells are powering
buses, boats, trains, planes, and even scooters. There
are even fuel cell-powered vending machines, vacuum
cleaners and highway road signs. Miniature fuel cells
for cellular phones, laptop computers, and portable
electronics will soon be available.
Image credit:
5000 watt fuel cell manufactured by PlugPower (large
cell); 25 watt fuel cell (three stack cell) manufactured
by H2ECOnomy (small silver cell); 30 watt fuel cell
manufactured by Avista Labs. Image Source: NREL
Recent Developments in
Hydrogen Energy and Fuel Cells
In February, European Auto Correspondent Michael Shields discussed how the European Commission's plan to cap cars' carbon dioxide
output could provide new market opportunities for advanced
technologies, including hydrogen fuel cells.
From Reuters News
For more information on energy from hydrogen, see:
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