Although fuel cells are more of an energy conversion technology than an alternative fuel, they can become a major power source in cars, as well as in many other devices. Northeast Ohio is developing a research specialty in fuel cells. The hope is that the technology can be commercialized here — creating jobs and establishing the region as a center for alternative energy innovation.

By the end of 2006, Ohio invested $50 million in fuel cell research and development, coupled with $200 million from the federal government for the Hydrogen fuel cell structure for cars, says Ken Alfred, Executive Director, Ohio Fuel Cell Coalition. 

Ohio's Third Frontier pre-seed fund for tech businesses has a dedicated funding stream for fuel cells through its research commercialization grant program (Case's Wright Fuel Cell Group won a $150,000 Third Frontier grant for a portable fuel cell project in November 2006). In addition, college programs at Case and Lorain County Community College have training programs in fuel cells, and non-government organizations like Battelle are involved in commercialization efforts.

"Northeast Ohio could be the supply chain for the whole industry," Alfred told a group of area manufacturers at a November 8th WIRE-Net meeting.

Emerging applications include small power supply units for portable electronics and power units carried by Army soldiers as well as back-up power generators. California-based UltraCell recently located its manufacturing operations for military fuel cells in Dayton. And Rolls Royce recently announced it will locate its world headquarters for fuel cell development in Canton.

What makes Ohio so attractive? "They chose the state because of the supply chain," Alfred says. And because the state's investment is focused on creating a cluster of fuel cell companies while stimulating market demand, according to the Ohio Department of Development's report Ohio's Fuel Cell Roadmap. 

Media
Ohio's now a leader in fuel cells, The Plain Dealer, Nov. 12, 2006 

Resources
Ohio Fuel Cell Coalition
Wright Fuel Cell Group
Ohio's Fuel Cell Roadmap