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Fuel Cell Deployment

Kyle Pynn, P.E., LEED® GABurns & McDonnell

www.burnsmcd.com

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Fuel Cell Advantages

• Compared with generators, fuel cells are cleaner, quieter, pollute less, and require less on‐site maintenance

• Fuel cells last longer and are more predictable than batteries

• Fuel cells can operate for ten years or more with undiminished power quality and quantity

• Fuel cell system are often scalable and modular

• Hydrogen’s versatile fuel characteristics provide for a wide range of operating temperatures allowing it to be placed in many regional locations

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Barriers to Deployment

• Cost of purchase / cost per kW (as compared to fossil fuel generators)

• Refueling during a power outage (e.g. storm)

• Hydrogen infrastructure (need to have supply of hydrogen and robust distribution system for a successful deployment)

• Zoning restrictions (costs associated with public hearings)

• Resistance from landowners

• Resistance from AHJs (Authority Having Jurisdiction) / Fire Marshals

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ConclusionFrom beginning to end, fuel cell roll‐out programs require careful and diligent logistical planning. Many of the factors that influence the project budget and schedule are controlled by municipal organizations. A successful project requires diligence and flexibility to work with all the people involved in all phases throughout the process.