Fuel cell technology advancement
Scientists from Virginia Polytechnic Institute and State University have recently developed an innovative electronic technology that makes fuel cells more efficient and could reduce their size and costs.
- National Energy Technology Laboratory. "New Electronic Technology Advances Fuel Cell Development: University Seeks Patent, Shares Technology With Partners in DOE's SECA Program." 9 February 2005 at www.netl.doe.gov/publications/press/2005/tl_vatech_seca.html
The technology converts direct current (DC) voltage into alternating current (AC) with appreciable gains in efficiency. According to the researchers, a 1% increase in efficiency can cut costs by $5-$10 per kilowatt. Such efficiency gains would eliminate large, expensive additional converters and/or capacitors, thereby reducing fuel cell system size and costs.
Implications: The technology will make fuel cells more cost-effective, smaller, and more effi cient, with implications for deployment on a larger scale. If successful, this project will promote the creation of fuel cells that are attractive to residential and commercial electricity markets, as well as transportation and utility sectors.
