Fuel cell power systems combine the emission-free advantages of batteries with the reliability of traditional combustion engines. Unlike batteries, fuel cells operate quietly without moving parts and offer quick refueling like traditional engines. Plus, they produce no emissions, only water and heat energy.

What do people use them for? Fuel cells generate electricity, making them suitable for powering anything from cars like the Toyota Mirai to smaller devices like phones and laptops. They’re even scalable for larger applications, such as providing power for cruise ships.

So, what are they exactly? Fuel cell systems consist of three main components: the fuel cell stack, balance of plant, and hydrogen storage system. The stack, typically a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) type, generates electricity through chemical reactions between hydrogen and oxygen. The balance of plant ensures smooth operation, while the hydrogen storage system stores the fuel in various forms.

Fuel cell systems are ideal for scenarios where batteries aren’t practical, especially in industrial applications, where factors like continuous, on-demand power are crucial.