With energy consumption on the rise, the US has a goal of 100% carbon-pollution-free electricity by 2035. How can energy technology like the hydrogen fuel cell help achieve these targets? These cells, powered by the simplest and most abundant element in the universe, offer a compelling alternative to conventional power sources, converting hydrogen into electricity through a clean electrochemical process.
Scientists and engineers are refining and scaling hydrogen fuel cells to meet diverse needs—from powering vehicles and industrial equipment to providing electricity for businesses’ critical infrastructure like hospitals and data centers. With their promise of high efficiency, reduced emissions, and adaptability across various applications, hydrogen fuel cells are answering today’s energy challenges and shaping the future of global power consumption. Let’s explore the potential of hydrogen fuel cells and their advantages.
A hydrogen fuel cell is a device that converts the stored energy in hydrogen into electrical power through an electrochemical process. It offers a clean and efficient alternative to conventional power sources. Hydrogen fuel cells operate through an electrochemical process, where hydrogen gas and oxygen combine to generate electrical power without combustion. The fuel cell stack, comprising an anode, cathode, and electrolyte, facilitates this process, producing electricity and water as the only byproduct. Learn more about hydrogen fuel cells and how they work in this blog.
Key Advantages of Hydrogen Fuel Cells
High Energy Efficiency
Hydrogen fuel cells outshine traditional energy sources with their exceptional efficiency. Typically, internal combustion engines operate at an efficiency rate of around 25%, while power plants hover around 35%. In contrast, hydrogen fuel cells in a combined heat and power system boast efficiencies greater than 60%, according to the U.S. Department of Energy. This remarkable efficiency is not just theoretical; it’s grounded in the fundamental advantage of directly converting chemical energy into electrical energy, bypassing the losses associated with combustion. This high efficiency translates into more energy output from the same
