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The IEA provides support for international collaboration on energy technology R&D, deployment and information dissemination. These groups function within a framework created by the IEA - the International Framework for International Energy Technology Collaboration. The views, findings and publications of these international groups (formally called Implementing Agreements) do not necessarily represent the views or policies of the IEA Secretariat or of all its individual member countries. OECD Member countries, autonomous OECD non-member countries, intergovernmental organisations, non-governmental organisations and private sector entities may participate. For more information, see our Technology Agreements page.

Advanced Fuel Cells

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.
Signatories : Australia | Austria | Canada | Denmark | Finland | France | Germany | Israel | Italy | Japan | Korea, Republic of | Mexico | Sweden | Switzerland | United States |
   
For more information: http://www.ieafuelcell.com

Current Projects (Annexes)

22. Polymer Electrolyte Fuel Cells
The objective of this Annex is to reduce the cost and improve the performance of PEFCs, DMFCs and corresponding fuel cell systems.

 

23. Molten Carbonate
The objective of this Annex is to assist the commercialisation of MCFC systems through collaborative research and development.

 

24. Solid Oxide Fuel Cells
The objective of this Annex is to assist, through international co-operation, the development of SOFC technologies.

 

25. Fuel Cells for Stationary Applications
The objective of this Annex is to understand better how stationary fuel cell systems may be deployed in energy systems.

 

26. Fuel Cells for Transportation
The objective of this Annex is to understand better how fuel cells may be deployed in transportation applications.

 

27. Fuel Cells for Portable Applications
The objective of this Annex is to assist, through international co-operation, with the development of portable fuel cells towards commercialisation.

 

28. Systems analysis
The aim of this Annex is to assist the development of fuel cells through analysis work to enable a better interpretation of the current status, and the future potential, of the technology. This work will provide a competent and factual information base for technical and economic studies. The Annex will run from 2011-2014.