News

Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Futures Conference

The Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Futures Conference was held in Perth, Western Australia between 12 and 15 September 2004 and was a great success. It was attended by some 300 delegates from all around the world including Germany, UK, France, Malaysia, China, Japan, New Zealand, Brazil, USA and Canada.

Conference delegates heard presentations which detailed the current status of hydrogen and fuel cell developments around the world. The keynote address from Mr Claude Mandil highlighted that while hydrogen may be considered by some to be the 'best bet' for future energy, there is a long way to go and the road will be hard.

The contributions from different countries and regions which highlighted the political decision-making on energy and hydrogen were very pertinent. There were good examples of strategies and programmes which might be transferred across the world to advance the agenda.

Details of current results from trials in China, Japan, Europe and North America show that the technology of fuel cells and vehicles is developing rapidly. Distances travelled are becoming very impressive, as are results on durability and reliability.

Of particular interest were the observations by some delegates that the refuelling infrastructure does not seem to be progressing as fast as the vehicle technology.

Plans are already being made for the next Conference in Perth for September 2006. Mark it in your diary!!