Power/energy: A giant step planned in fuel-cell plant test: A demonstration program for a prototype 4.8-MW dc fuel cell is underway for New York's Consolidated Edison electrical system

The day when electric energy will be supplied by fuel cells has been brought a step closer to realization. In August, shortly after it was awarded a contract by the U.S. Department of Energy's (DOE) Energy Research and Development Agency and the Electric Power Research Institute (EPRI), the Consolidated Edison Company of New York began a joint Government/electric utility program to install and operate a prototype 4.8-MW dc or 4.5-MW ac fuel-cell module on its electrical system. The module is being manufactured by the United Technologies Corporation (UTC). This demonstration program is the first effort to apply the fuel-cell concept in a utility environment, and to quantify and evaluate benefits that might accrue to electric utilities and their customers through its use.