When the term fuel cell comes to mind, one thinks of gas-powered or steam-powered engines or technology. But rather, it’s completely the opposite. In general, a fuel cell uses the chemical energy of hydrogen gas or some other form of gas. These gasses are used to produce electrical energy efficiently. If we use hydrogen as the source of the byproducts, we will get water and heat along with electricity. Fuel cells vary according to the products we use as a catalyst or the main source of electricity generation. The first fuel cell system in India was developed by the Council of Scientific and Industrial Research and its partnership with Indian companies. 

Establishment of First Fuel System of India 

The first fuel cell system in India was announced by the CSIR (Council of Scientific and Industrial Research). It was on the date 26 September 2019. The President of India announced the first high temperature based system for a fuel cell. 

• The developed first fuel cell is based on a new technology called High-Temperature Proton Exchange Membrane (HTPM)
• The systems of fuel cells weigh around 5.0 kW which generates energy in a green manner
• The first indigenous cell system of India takes bio-methane and methanol. Then it produces byproducts such as water and heat that can be used later
• Also, the system of fuel cells helps in attaining efficiency of more than 70%. Thus, it is challenging to achieve by any other source

Fuel cell systems are anticipated to be a significant alternative to grid power for clean energy. Hence, the development of the first fuel cell is expected to lessen the dependence on other nations for crude oil. 

What are the different applications of fuel cells?

The fuel cell system is highly sustainable to help in fulfilling distributed power applications. For example, they can be used in commercial units, small offices, data centers, etc. Hence, they can be used where the demand for reliable power is necessary. 

These are the following applications of fuel cells in different industries. 

Utility Vehicles

Utility vehicles are highly used for fuel cell applications. It is because the utility vehicles contain batteries of lead-acid, which need charging and maintenance. The fuel cell system can help in reducing downtime, maintenance, operating costs, etc. 

Bicycles and Scooters

Bicycles and scooters are a highly popular mode of transport among countries having large populations. Thus, this application of fuel cells can play a major role in boosting its demand. 

Stationary Power Uses

The first fuel cell of India can help in providing power for various stationary applications. It is mainly used for providing power to those who are not linked to the grid. Hence, they are also used for providing supplemental power. 

Backup Power

The backup power systems are essential when the main source of power gets disrupted. It is one of the crucial applications of fuel cells. Also, fuel cells for backup power can be easily commercialized. Some of the applications of backup power are manufacturing facilities, homes, utility substations, computer systems, etc.  

Warehouse Logistics

Several companies worldwide having large warehouses require massive energy. Thus, the fuel cell system can help in providing energy to pallet jacks, clean trucks, etc.

Types of Fuel Cells

There are different types of fuel cells available. Some of them are listed below. 

• Direct methanol fuel cells 
• Solid oxide fuel cells
• Molten carbonate fuel cells
• Polymer electrolyte membrane fuel cells
• Reversible fuel cells
• Phosphoric acid fuel cells

Conclusion

In conclusion, the first fuel cell system in India was introduced on 26 September 2019. This day is also celebrated as the foundation day of CSIR. Hence, the first fuel cell system was introduced by CSIR along with collaboration with other Indian industries. This collaboration was named “New Millennium Indian Technology. There are various applications of fuel cell systems such as warehouse power, stationary power, bicycle and scooters, planes, backup power, etc. Some of the different types of fuel cells are Phosphoric acid fuel cells, direct methanol fuel cells, etc. Therefore, fuel cells can help India reduce its crude oil dependence. It is also an effective clean and green energy for the country.