Fuel cells create electricity, usable heat, and water by combining hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen does not need to be available because commercial offerings run on natural gas, coal gas, propane and bio fuels, including methane. The cells internally extract the necessary hydrogen. They produce Direct Current (DC) electricity without the conventional combustion reaction, which is then converted into Alternating Current (AC) for use. Current fuel cells are generally stationary and used for large fixed locations like resorts, prisons, wastewater facilities, and manufacturing plants, although there are units currently available for smaller uses.
The current generation of products can operate about 95% of the time with an efficiency of up to 47%. The efficiency factor is in part dependent on how well the proposed installation can utilize the electricity, heat and water. Current fuel cells are much cleaner than traditional fossil fuel generators, but still have some emissions. The next generation promises to be more flexible and clean.
On April 24, 2008, the California Public Utilities Commission increased from 1 MW to 3 MW the size of the fuel cell projects that can qualify for cash incentives under the Self-Generation Incentive Program for 2008 and 2009.
Our Company can supply and install current products. Note: ongoing and scheduled maintenance of currently available fuel cells is normally performed by the manufacturer.