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Fuel cells

Another developing technology that holds promise is the fuel cell.

Fuel cells generate electricity though an electrochemical reaction. There are several different types, classified by the type of electrolyte they use. Common ones include acid alkaline, molten carbonate and solid oxide.

Fuel cells are similar to batteries – with a difference. They don’t run down like a battery. And unlike a battery in a car or flashlight, the energy doesn’t get used up.

Fuel cells transform the energy of a fuel directly into electricity without combustion. They run on hydrogen-rich fuels such as naptha, methanol, natural gas and hydrogen.

So far, fuel cells are limited in size. They have not yet generated electricity for distribution and resale to end users.

Instead, they are used in prototype vehicles to reduce fossil fuel consumption. In time, they may be used for residences to reduce the amount of electricity demanded from the grid.

For more detailed information, see the fuel cell overview.