The Fuel Cell Box

[Kermit]

Has anyone heard of this? I just read this article on a type of power generation that can use various fuels gas, natural gas ect. without burning it, hence no emissions. Apparently it uses a chemical reaction instead of combustion. The most amazing thing is that they are currently in use, powering ebay, and even more amazing is that they plan to have a car battery sized model that can power an entire home for 10 years with a price tag of roughly $3,000. Check out the link to the article, there is also a great video that explains how it works.

http://envirogy.wordpress.com/2010/02/25/the-future-is-bloom-or-bust/

[maxkone]

I've heard of these things. Very interesting concept. Obviously prohibitively expensive right now, but that will change in the future as production ramps up.

But I'm concerned that is still runs on gas. It's like an engine...without the engine part. (if that makes any sense) Yes, the efficiency is good, and the zero emissions is great. But it bothers me that this super advanced device still relies on a fossil fuel. Gold mine if they can solve that and replace gas with a renewable source. Otherwise, I feel it will remain a lofty, esoteric technology for those select few who can afford to say "my company is powered by a BloomBox."

[Kermit]

You're right, but at the same time the US and Canada have massive amounts of gas and oil deposits left, so this could be the key to bridging the gap from fossils to pure renewable energy.