11 Introducing Fuel Cells Robert Rose Breakthrough Technologies Institute Inc.

2 Fuel Cells Defined Fuel cells do not burn fuel. Fuel cells convert the energy of a fuel electrochemically into electricity, water, and heat. Unlike batteries, fuel cells continuously generate electricity as long as fuel is supplied. The process is quiet, pollution-free and highly efficient. Fuel (H 2 ) + O 2 /Catalyst (H 2 )O + Heat

3 Inside a Fuel Cell Hydrogen is fed into the "anode" and oxygen (air) enters through the cathode. Encouraged by a catalyst, the hydrogen and oxygen atoms ionize. Attracted by the oxygen, the proton passes through the electrolyte. The electrons cannot - the electrolyte is non-conducting. The electrons are gathered to create a separate current flowing to the cathode, where they are reunited with the hydrogen and oxygen in a molecule of water.

4 A Family of Technololgies Efficiency 40% 50-60% 40% 50% 45-65% When heat is captured, fuel cells can achieve efficiencies greater than 95%

5 Benefits No other energy technology offers the combination of benefits that fuel cells offer: Low/zero emissions High efficiency/low CO 2 Wide range of applications and fuels Distributed installation Modular High quality, reliable power Rugged Quiet Few moving parts Can partner with wind/solar, other renewables Does not “run down”

6 A Growing Industry