Glenn Eisman explains the basics of hydrogen fuel cells and how researchers at Rensselaer are addressing obstacles on the road to the hydrogen economy. Photo by Jason Gorss
	A mini hydrogen car that runs on a simple electrolyzer, which splits hydrogen and oxygen out of water and creates electricity as it puts them back together. Photo by Jason Gorss

What is the “hydrogen economy” and how will it impact New York state? Are fuel cells really the wave of the future? Members of the local community heard discussions about these issues and more Oct. 26 at the H₂ Educate Public Education Forum hosted by the Center for Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Research and the Center for Future Energy Systems at Rensselaer.

Sponsored in part by the New York State Energy Research and Development Authority (NYSERDA), the forum was one of four being held across the state to discuss the future of hydrogen as a fuel source. Glenn Eisman, director of the Center for Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Research, gave a short course in “Hydrogen 101” and was joined by representatives from NYSERDA, Latham-based Plug Power Inc., and the New York Energy Smart Students Program.

The full presentations will be posted at: http://www.need.org/states/newyork/ Hydrogen.htm

Published October 31, 2005