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.