Prospect of Residential PEFC Cogeneration System

Abstract

Now we are confronted by the most difficult challenge on the global environmental protection, I think that the fuel cell (FC) is one of a few candidates which can contribute to an environmental protection and an energy security at same time. We should think much of commercialization on developing FC projects. That is to say, unless FC projects are focusing on commercialization, they will not be of help to our society realistically. The Japanese government has been subsidizing to demonstration projects to date in order to commercialize Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell (PEFC) cogeneration systems for residential use.

We have serious targets to reduce their manufacturing costs and enhance their durability significantly. If they are not achieved, real market of residential PEFC cogeneration systems is not made. It is not so easy to commercialize residential PEFC cogeneration systems, however, I believe we can overcome the challenges not only by well organized R&D programs in collaboration between the government, industries and universities, but also by their continuous efforts to realize clean hydrogen society in the future.