1996 fuel cell status

The technology of fuel cells is heating up. A world that ten years ago was unaware of the concept can now witness approximately 200 fuel cell units operating in 15 countries. Energy planners and decision makers are becoming aware that, in addition to a continual increase in installations, the reliability of early commercial units is outstanding and the cost is dropping. They have begun to ask whether fuel cells might fit into their future. While the fuel cell concept is simple, determining which type of fuel cell to consider may prove taxing. The multiplicity of fuel cells and their development programs, coupled with the amount of subject material and claims-versus-reality, may seem overwhelming. Fuel cell commercialization activities in North America are the focus of five manufacturers that are developing four types of fuel cell: the 200/spl deg/C phosphoric acid (PAFC); the 80/spl deg/C proton exchange membrane (PEM); the 650/spl deg/C molten carbonate (MCFC); and the 1000/spl deg/C solid oxide (SOFC) fuel cell.