Germany excels in its hydrogen power usage

The demand for renewable fuels has reached an all time high in Germany.

Officials are reporting that the more than 17% of German households make use of renewable electricity and that, in 2010, the number of households utilizing electricity produced by hydrogen fuel cells and solar installations has doubled. The demand is enticing a number of companies specializing in the field to flock to Germany.

Germany’s Trade & Invest will be sending representatives to the International Photovoltaic Power Generation Expo, as well as the International Hydrogen & Fuel Cell Expo, to participate in the Japan Renewable Energy week.

The country boasts of the largest solar market in the world, with systems producing over 7 GWp and accounting to nearly half of the world’s market.

Germany also hosts one of the most competitive hydrogen fuel markets in the world.

“Germany has the right conditions for the rapid development of the energy storage and fuel cell industry,” says Raphael Goldstein, senior manager for Energy Storage and Fuel Cells at Germany’s Trade & Invest. Because of the high demand and access to developmental resources, the organization is encouraging foreign companies to expand their operations into the German market.

The German government estimates that by 2020 more than 35% of Germany’s electricity will be generated from renewable sources. By 2050, the estimate climbs to 80%.

This is only possible, however, if demand and investment in energy storage continues.