Fuel cells offer hope of solving the problem of CO2 emissions from appliances powered by traditional fuels. Combined with hydrogen, known as the fuel of the future, fuel cells open up many possibilities, such as decarbonizing industry, storing energy, or supplying it during power outages. Here are three fuel-cell applications worth knowing.
1. Heating
Hydrogen-based fuel cells are a solution that in the future may become part of a new generation of heating appliances that will be low-emission or even zero-emission (if powered by green hydrogen). Termet, Warsaw University of Technology and Fuel Cell Poland are currently working on a micro-cogeneration system that will initially be gas-powered and in the future – hydrogen-powered, making it possible to obtain not only heat, but also electricity. The innovative boiler is intended for single-family homes as well as small businesses.
2. Energy
Fuel cells also make it possible to generate electricity through an oxidation process. The unit mentioned in the previous point will supply it as well. The boiler will make it possible to regulate which type of energy should predominate, depending on users’ current needs. In addition to eco-friendly heating, it will also give households independence from electricity suppliers, for example in the event of a grid failure or a sudden rise in energy prices.
3. Transport
Hydrogen-powered cars and coaches are still a rarity, but they are already appearing on the streets. The most prestigious brands are investing in this technology. Why? From the user’s point of view, such a vehicle has many advantages. It is quiet, efficient, emits no exhaust gases, and refueling takes a comparable amount of time to conventional models. The use of fuel cells may in the future also apply to heavy transport. One Dutch city, for example, has decided to put a fuel-cell-powered garbage truck into service.
You can also find more on this topic in the video
