Hydrogen fuel is predicted to play a big role in the future of the world’s energy usage. Estimates say that its prices will decrease by half and nearly a quarter of the world’s energy will be supplied by it by 2050 https://smallcaps.com.au/global-energy-ventures-take-advantage-global-demand-green-hydrogen/. Hydrogen is also one of the best ways to store renewable energy which can be transformed into electricity through an emission free process using hydrogen fuel cells. These hydrogen fuel cells are much like electricity generating power stations, but on a smaller scale. They take in hydrogen fuel and produce electricity and heat for use in the home. This can be a substitute to the electrical grid or can be used alongside one to offset peak hour costs and provide backup power.
Electricity prices have been rising steadily and are projected to go up by 16% in the US by 2031. Because of this there is a growing consumer demand for alternative clean energy. Most hydrogen fuel cells are not suitable to fill this demand because of their high production cost. However, one company, Alkaline Fuel Cell Power, is developing a fuel cell that is small in size and is made using inexpensive components, making it specifically tailored for use in the residential and smaller commercial applications. Alkaline Fuel Cell Power’s design mostly uses common, accessible materials like plastic, nickel, and graphite to drive the end-cost down and allow for high production volume.
Hydrogen fuel cells, like those developed by Alkaline Fuel Cell Power, are absolutely clean in their operation. They do not rely on combustion, so there are no harmful emissions, noise, or vibration. Hydrogen for use in Alkaline Fuel Cell Power’s fuel cells can be produced from water through electrolysis using renewable energy for an entirely clean production.
The future of hydrogen is of high importance for world governments; in Europe an estimated €470 billion will be invested into hydrogen by 2050, and as much as €18 billion into fossil-based, low-carbon hydrogen. Many countries see hydrogen as a crucial source of cleaner energy despite low adoption rate today. European legislatures and capital providers are becoming more demanding of the energy sphere to integrate clean energy, as it has become a growing concern for the region. The current demand for zero-emission technology is not being met due to the lack of adequate technology currently available to fulfil it. Alkaline Fuel Cell Power hopes to change this with their 4kW system currently in development and scheduled for release in 2024.
