Fuel Cells
A fuel cell is an electrochemical energy conversion device that converts hydrogen and oxygen into electricity and heat. It is very much like a battery that can be recharged while power is being drawn from it. Instead of recharging using electricity, however, a fuel cell uses hydrogen and oxygen. Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells are developed for smaller-scale stationary power as well as transportation. The PEM fuel cell has the appropriate size and operating characteristics for building use. Offices, health care, lodging, and educational buildings have the load characteristics and economies of scale that make PEM fuel cells attractive.
Additional information on applications for fuel cells can be found at the Online Fuel Cell Information Resource.