Distributed/Stationary Fuel Cell Systems
Because the buildings sector accounts for approximately 36 percent of the U.S. primary energy consumption and between 30-40 percent of all airborne emissions, DOE is developing high efficiency polymer electrolyte membrane (PEM) fuel cell power systems as an alternative power source to grid-based electricity for buildings. A successful stationary fuel cell program will not only save energy and reduce emissions, but its inherent flexibility will help address energy shortage issues through energy diversity.
In addition, the program is funding stationary/distributed generation "learning demonstrations" to prove fuel cell technologies in real-world applications.
The status of DOE's stationary power systems R&D projects is detailed in the fuel cells section of the Annual Progress Report.