FuelCell Energy to develop reversible fuel cells

Reversible fuel cells to be developed through new project with ARPA-E support

FuelCell Energy, a leading developer of hydrogen fuel cells, has announced that it has been awarded a promising new contract from the Advanced Research Projects Agency-Energy (ARPA-E). The agency is a division of the United States Department of Energy that is focused on the renewable energy field as well as the application of various types of technologies. The contract awarded to FuelCell Energy is valued at $3 million.

New fuel cells can produce hydrogen and generate electricity

The contract will establish a new project through which FuelCell Energy will be developing new solid oxide fuel cell technology. This technology is meant to switch amongst types of electrolysis in order to produce hydrogen fuel. These fuel cells will also be able to store hydrogen for later consumption for the sake of energy production. Through the project reversible fuel cells will be developed, which can be used to generate hydrogen fuel when the fuel cell system itself is being used in an energy storage capacity. Moreover, the fuel cell systems designed through the project will also be able to consume other types of carbon-neutral fuels in order to generate electricity.

New technology could help make fuel cells more efficient

Reversible fuel cells could help create new opportunities in several sectors that already use these energy systems. Currently, fuel cells are not typically able to produce their own hydrogen, relying on outside production sources in order to effectively operate. Reversible fuel cells can be an effective energy efficiency solution, as they combine the capability to produce hydrogen and generate electricity while also being able to store fuel for later use.

US continues to show support for new clean energy solutions

Hydrogen fuel cells have attracted significant attention in the United States. These energy systems are used for various industrial purposes. The Department of Energy and ARPA-E have shown significant support for these energy systems in recent years, particularly where transportation is concerned. By making fuel cells more efficient and effective at generating electricity, ARPA-E believes that these energy systems will have a major role to play in the country’s renewable energy plans.