Hydrogen Economy

• The Department of Energy (DOE) states that a hydrogen-based economy will emerge in the future. Once the infrastructure is in place and when hydrogen becomes economically viable, then hydrogen will become a primary fuel source.
  
  

Fuel Cell Technology

• The DOE stands behind the use of fuel cells as a means for powering the economy. Critical barriers with using fuel cell technology must be overcome before this source of power can be viable. Laboratories, universities and industrial organizations are working with the DOE to address these issues.
  
  

Hydrogen Combustion

• Hydrogen combustion engines are modified internal combustion motors that use pure hydrogen or run on hydrogen and natural gas. The DOE states that this type of vehicle is considered the mid-term point for the full implementation toward a hydrogen economy.
  
  

Hydrogen Plants

• The Energy Information Administration states that California, Texas and Louisiana produce much of the hydrogen in the U.S. Hydrogen plants face the problem of being able to determine current and future hydrogen demand in a reliable and economic manner. Infrastructure is still being developed and plants have to use outside providers to help meet their needs.
  
  

Production

• U.S. production of hydrogen is 10 million tons each year. If hydrogen vehicles are to be a common part of our economy, then this production must double. This will pose a challenge to producing hydrogen in an efficient and environmentally friendly way.