Fuel cells have the potential to convert fuels to electricity at very high efficiencies comparedwith conventional technologies. In addition to reductions in emissions of greenhouse gases resulting from the increased efficiency their use does not result in the production of the other noxious emissions that are usually associated with combustion.

The objectives of the Implementing Agreement on Advanced Fuel Cells are to advance the state of understanding of Participants in the field of advanced fuel cells through co-operative research, technology development and system analysis on Molten Carbonate, Solid Oxide and Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cell systems. There is a strong emphasis on information exchange through meetings, workshops and reports.

The main areas of activity are aimed at reducing the cost and improving the performance of molten carbonate, solid oxide and polymer electrolyte fuel cells and examining ways in which fuel cells and systems can be optimised for stationary, transport and portable applications, taking into account users' requirements.

The main achievements to date have been the establishment of expert networks and the initial exchanges of information on cell, stack and system performance, testing methods and application requirements. The formation of experts groups and the exchange of information between them have strengthened national capabilities and is expected to lead to the achievement of significant technical objectives.

The work is conducted through task-sharing with each participating country providing an agreed level of effort. A common fund provides support for the Executive Committee Secretariat.

16. Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells
The aim of annex is to contribute to the identification and development of techniques to reduce the cost and improve the performance of polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs), direct methanol fuel cells (DMFCs) and corresponding fuel cell systems.

17. MCFC Towards Demonstration
Collaborative research anddevelopment to assist the commercialisation of MCFC systems. This will include research aimed at improving stack performance and reducing costs, development and standardisation of testprocedures.

18. Solid Oxide Fuel Cells - Making ready for Application
A series of annual workshops and associated meetings aimed at improving the durability and reducing the cost of SOFC systems, each addressing different research and development topics.

19. Fuel Cells for Stationary Applications
Improve understanding of stationary fuel cell installations and how to construct them.

20. Fuel Cell Systems for Transportation
The objective of this Task will be to discuss and coordinate activities concerning different transportation fuel cell systems and fuels for them,and fuel cells for different transportation applications. The work programme is still underdevelopment.

21. Fuel Cells for Portable Applications
The definition of a portable fuel cell used by the annex is: 1) hand-held, 2) portable (transported by one person) or 3) transported easily between locations. The main research activities involve system analysis, stack and cell application oriented development and materials under operating conditions (life cycle oriented testing).