A fuel cell is an electrochemical device that converts the chemical energy from a fuel (like hydrogen) and an oxidant (like oxygen) directly into electricity, producing only water and heat as byproducts, making it a clean, efficient power source for vehicles, buildings, and portable electronics, unlike batteries that store energy or combustion engines that burn fuel. It works by splitting fuel into protons and electrons, with protons passing through an electrolyte membrane to combine with oxygen and electrons to generate current, heat, and water at the cathode. Fuel cells offer high efficiency, low to zero emissions, quiet operation, fuel flexibility, scalability for various uses, and reduced maintenance due to fewer moving parts, making them cleaner, quieter, and more efficient than combustion engines for generating power from fuels like hydrogen. They provide continuous power, unlike batteries, and offer energy independence by using diverse fuels.

Pending Legislation: S.1043 Technology for Energy Security Act
Sponsor: Rep. Sen. Lindsey Graham (SC)
Status: Senate Committee on Finance
Chair: Sen. Mike Crappo (ID)