Advantages of Fuel Cell Technology
Who doesn’t want to save money, the planet, and be energy independent?
Electric rates are going nowhere but up in coming years. Despite this fact, which many utility companies have already announced publicly, we can’t always be 100 percent efficient by turning off every electronic device, lamp and power strip.
Perhaps the way to solve this dilemma is to look at the source of your home’s power supply as well as the way it’s used? Renewable energy options are increasingly available these days – from solar panels to backyard wind turbines to fuel cell technology. Yet, if you’re specifically looking for a quick return on your investment (average 5 years) and prefer a compact and quiet energy source, home fuel cells provide a very viable alternative.
Fuel cells come in different shapes, sizes, and power capabilities. And like solar power, fuel cells can be used for heating water and require no combustion. In general, the payback on residential fuel cell technology is nearly five times faster than solar.
Read on to learn more about all the great benefits fuel cells have to offer.
Come Wind or High Water
Fuel cells can be used year round because their efficiency is not directly impacted by weather. Solar panels require lots of sunshine, and wind turbines need steady, fairly strong winds. Fuel cells can function indefinitely as long as their reactants and oxidants are maintained. Imagine 24/7 heat and power, all coming from a clean energy source, with the byproduct being pure water!
Breathe Deeply
As fuel cells function to make energy, they release only a tiny amount of pollutants. The main byproducts of fuel cell chemistry are heat, water, and this small amount of carbon dioxide (CO2). Despite the CO2 emissions, they are tremendously less than those produced by burning fossil fuels. Fuel cells are clearly part of the answer to a creating a more sustainable atmosphere and global warming concerns.
Efficiency
With proper maintenance and use, fuel cells can be 60 – 80% efficient. Fuel cells can be even more efficient if the heat produced from their function is diverted to heat residential water or indoor space. This is contrasted with only 20-30% efficiency of traditional fossil fuel based power.
Sleep Easy
Unlike the humming produced by your local electric towers or wind turbines, fuel cell systems are virtually silent. This makes them a perfect clean energy addition to any residential or populated commercial area.
Energy Independence
A properly intergraded fuel cell system can help you save up to 40% on your utility bills. Producing your own clean energy also significantly reduces your need for natural gas, although you will still need a natural gas supply to help run the fuel cell. You will thus not be completely “off grid” but much closer. And, you will not be susceptible to the ongoing escalation of costs per kilowatt hour charged by the utility company.
No More Oil Spills
Fuel Cells can run on a variety of available fuels, most popular being hydrogen. They can also function on fuels such as natural gas, alcohol, biogas, ethanol, and methanol. If you are striving for a 100% clean energy source you may want to look into fuel cells that do not need hydrocarbons to function.
Rapid Return
Although the initial investment can be significant, the ultimate payback for a home fuel cell system is much faster than that of wind, solar, or geothermal. Industry data shows that the payback for a fuel cell system averages approximately 5 years, a much shorter timeframe than the averages for solar or wind. Once your fuel cell system starts paying for itself, you can “bank” the surplus power with your utility company (if available) and earn credits that will be deducted from your monthly bills.
Zero to No Wildlife Impact
Fuel cells systems are compact, flameless and self-contained. They also have no spinning blades like wind turbines, which can be dangerous for birds and other small animals. Since the technology can be condensed into a unit, there are no lengthy wiring installations that can impact wildlife or be cut by the landscapers.
Flexibility
Fuel Cell technology can be incorporated into any property, residential or commercial, although for efficiency’s sake they work best on homes over 3,000 square feet. Since fuel cells sit on the ground and do no require a specific mounting surface, they can be virtually used on any property.
No Energy Surges or Black Outs
Fuel cells are not known to experience power surges or black outs, so you can enjoy your favorite TV show or book while your neighbors search for their flashlights in the dark. This is a great convenience especially if you live in a region that experiences harsh weather conditions.
Channel 10 on Fuel Cell Technology
New Technology May Help Lower Local Energy Bills.
Getting Started
First, determine your budget and then decide on the size of your specific project. Many states offer various incentives for renewable (renewable what), so make sure to determine if you are eligible for any rebates. Check out the DSIRE website for information in your area.
Our recommendation is to look for companies that offer commercial and residential installation—search our GreenPages for fuel cell providers such as ClearEdge Power.
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