What are the environmental benefits of hydrogen fuel cells?
Fuel cells do not burn the fuel they use. Instead, they combine hydrogen with oxygen from the air to produce water and electricity. The only emission the fuel cell generates is water vapor. Using hydrogen instead of burning fossil fuels makes our air cleaner, diversifies our energy supply and potentially reduces global warming. Why are we doing this? Hydrogen promises a host of benefits – from diversifying energy supply to improving the health of the environment. Putting ZEBs on the streets has a direct impact on air quality and the health of local residents. If fuel cell technology proves to be feasible and economical, hydrogen could become an important part of the world’s energy mix. Testing this technology with centralized fueling and a transit fleet application is the logical first step. Why is hydrogen safe? Like any fuel, hydrogen requires proper handling and a safe system design for production, storage and usage. In general, hydrogen, if properly handled, is as safe as gasoline,