Proceedings of the
Second International Energy 2030 Conference,
November 4-5, 2008, Abu Dhabi, U.A.E.
Hydrogen and Fuel Cells: A Vision of our Energy Future
Professor Peter P. Edwards
University of Oxford, UK
Abstract
A major challenge – some would argue the major challenge facing our planet today – relates to the
problem of anthropogenic-driven climate change and its inextricable link to our global society’s present
and future energy needs [1]. Hydrogen and fuel cells are now widely regarded as key energy solutions for
the 21st century; these technologies will contribute significantly to a reduction in environmental impact,
enhanced energy security (and diversity) and the creation of new energy industries. Hydrogen and fuel
cells can be utilized in transportation, distributed heat and power generation and energy storage systems.
However, the transition from a carbon-based (fossil fuel) energy system to a hydrogen-based economy
involves significant scientific, technological and socio-economic barriers to the implementation of
hydrogen and fuel cells as the clean energy technologies of the future.
