Hydrogen is an energy carrier, like electricity, which requires a source of primary energy to make it. Hydrogen can be produced from a number of different sources including fossil fuels such as coal or natural gas, renewable energy sources such as wind, hydro and biomass, or nuclear. Hydrogen can be converted to electricity and heat using modified internal combustion engines, gas turbines or fuel cells.
Demonstration
Demonstration of these technologies under realistic operating conditions is an important step on the road to commercialisation. It is needed to develop confidence the technology will meet users' needs and to identify issues requiring further research and development.
The Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Demonstration Programme (HFC), formerly part of the Hydrogen, Fuel Cells, and Carbon Abatement Technologies Demonstration Programme (HFCCAT), is supported under the Environmental Transformation Fund (ETF).
The programme - funded by DECC but managed by the Technology Strategy Board - aims to demonstrate components or complete systems in realistic operating conditions.
- The first call for proposals was announced in October 2006.
- The programme currently supports three projects with funding of £3.7m.
- A new competition for up to £7.2m of funding was opened in September 2009.
It builds on previous demonstrations under the HFCCAT by enabling successful companies to develop and test the technology in their drive towards commercialisation through further demonstration activities.
Research and development
International activities
The UK has participated in the European Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technology Platform (HFP) and welcomes the Commission’s Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Joint Technology Initiative.
The UK is a member of