Reflection and Opinions

I have to admit there is no simple and easy to implement solution to our energy needs. What I do know is that there is going to be an increased need for power around the world, and there is a finite amount of fossil fuels. There are conflicting reports and studies on how much is left, but clearly at some point they will run out or no longer be a viable source. This means we are going to have to get power so other way.

The challenges I see with hydrogen are the technology, implementation, and public opinion. More research needs to be done, and I think the government and private companies need to support it. Energy is an issue of the utmost importance, and it would be better for everyone to take action now.

Also, the support for advanced technologies should not favor any in particular. For example, hybrids and fuel cells might be seen opposing solutions. This is certainly not the case. The smart way to handle this would be to develop both, and let them naturally work there way into the system. These technologies are not going to both be immediately used.

For now transportation, hybrids and more efficient cars should be implemented wherever possible. America has a poor taste for gas guzzling vehicles. Lowering our consumption would have immediate impact on CO2 and NOx emissions. This would make cities nicer and trips to the gas station rarer and maybe cheaper.

The first two hybrid cars released, left Honda Insight and right Toyota Prius.

With continuing research into fuel cells and hydrogen, they could eventually be worked into cars. The fuel cell hybrid could be be the bridge that helps. Perhaps someday fuel cells could power cars alone. This way both technologies would be used, and they transition could be slowed down to make it feasible and to give people time to get used to the change. This also would start to slow the release of emissions and slow our fuel consumption before it would be too late.

For this evolution I think the fuel cell that could be reversed to separate water is the ideal choice. The owners of the cars would never have to directly deal with hydrogen, except maybe in emergency. Perhaps the garages or homes could be connected to renewable energy sources that could "charge" the cars when they are not being used. Some hydrogen might have to be available, but maybe not as often ( maybe along major highways so refueling for long distance can be done).