Well over 200 fuel cell systems for stationary power generation have been installed worldwide for use in hospitals, hotels, office buildings, schools, utility power plants and even an airport terminal. Prototypes are also underway for residential use.

So far, they have demonstrated excellent fuel efficiency and reliability requiring little maintenance and running quietly. Nonetheless, costs remain too high and limit their commercial potential at present. Eventually, fuel cells are likely to play a major role in the expanding Combined Heat and Power (CHP) sector. These installations generate usable heat and power in a single process characterized by a high electrical to heat energy output ratio which makes fuel cells ideal due to their high electrical efficiencies.

Fuel cells are also being tested for use at landfill and wastewater treatment plants where they can reduce emissions and generate power from the methane gas produced there. Other future applications for fuel cells include providing portable power for laptop computers, mobile telephones and other appliances.

How does a fuel cell work?

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.
At the anode, H 2 is separated into hydrogen ions and electrons, a process assisted by a catalyst often comprising platinum group metals. The electrons travel through an external circuit, generating the required power. The ions pass through the electrolyte to the cathode where, assisted by another catalyst, they join with oxygen atoms to produce water. more >>