In the 1960s, when humans were taking their first grand leaps into outer space, NASA needed a clean reliable way to supply electricity to its spacecraft. The answer to the problem was fuel cell technology. NASA’s manned space flights marked the first commercial use of the fuel cell, and they have been providing electrical power for space missions—and more down-to-earth applications—for more than 40 years.
So, what’s so great about a fuel cell? Unlike renewable energy sources like solar or wind, fuel cells can run in any environment quietly and efficiently. They have near-zero emissions, and, unlike batteries, which are simply energy storage devices, fuel cells can run continuously as long as fuel is provided. In certain configurations, fuel cells can even run in reverse, generating hydrogen that can then be used as fuel for continuous operation.
NETL research focuses on solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs), which are particularly low pollution and high efficiency, with an eye toward coal-based utility -scale electrical power generation. Compared to today’s fossil energy combustion technologies, SOFCs produce less CO2, require less water consumption, and use less fuel while providing the same amount of electricity. They can operate on a variety of abundant domestic fuels—like hydrogen, coal synthesis gas, and natural gas. These advantages make SOFCs a nearly perfect clean energy technology—nearly perfect because a few challenges must be overcome before SOFCs are ready for the commercial market. NETL research is forging a clear path to launch this space-age technology into today’s commercial market.
