Hydrogen: Pioneering Clean Energy Solutions
The Power of Hydrogen: Dr. Michaela Kendall's Vision for a Green Future
Dr. Michaela Kendall’s Journey
Dr. Michaela Kendall is a pioneer in the hydrogen economy, having co-founded Adelan in the early 1990s—one of the world’s first fuel cell companies. She is also the UK Hydrogen Champion for Mission Innovation and chairs the Midlands Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Network. Throughout her career, Dr. Kendall has managed R&D projects funded by major institutions such as the US, EU, and Chinese governments, showcasing her significant role in advancing hydrogen technology globally. She has held academic posts in America, Asia, and Europe, working to address key issues like energy security, emissions, and cost through hydrogen solutions
(source: Women in Green Hydrogen)
Hydrogen Fuel Cells as a Green Solution
Hydrogen fuel cells offer clean energy by converting hydrogen and oxygen into electricity with only water as a byproduct, making them a zero-emission technology. Dr. Kendall’s work at Adelan has focused on using microtubular solid oxide fuel cells (mSOFC), which provide a higher power density compared to conventional designs. This technology is particularly suited for hybrid renewable energy systems and off-grid power needs. Dr. Kendall is also a strong advocate for scaling up hydrogen infrastructure, noting that while challenges exist, hydrogen presents enormous opportunities for decarbonization and innovation in sectors such as rail, automotive, and manufacturing (source: Mission Innovation)
Hydrogen's Impact
Hydrogen fuel cells generate energy by converting hydrogen and oxygen into electricity with water as the only byproduct, making them a zero-emission technology. In comparison to fossil fuels, hydrogen can reduce greenhouse gases by up to 90% in some sectors. Dr. Kendall’s work at Adelan has focused on using microtubular solid oxide fuel cells (mSOFC), which provide higher power density compared to conventional designs, making them particularly suitable for off-grid power and hybrid renewable energy systems.
Links to Industry Reports:
International Energy Agency (IEA) Hydrogen Report: A comprehensive overview of hydrogen’s role in the global energy transition.
- Hydrogen Council – Reports and Insights: In-depth reports on hydrogen’s role in the global energy transition.
- International Renewable Energy Agency (IRENA) – Hydrogen Perspective: Insights into hydrogen as a renewable energy source.
Hydrogen Europe: Resources and news on hydrogen initiatives, innovation, and industry growth across Europe.
Real-World Applications of Hydrogen Fuel Cells
Dr. Kendall has actively been involved in various real-world hydrogen applications, including a successful trial of Adelan’s solid oxide fuel cell technology in rail transport. This trial involved powering a locomotive with hydrogen fuel cells, resulting in a significant reduction in emissions and operational costs. The project highlights how hydrogen technology can be integrated into existing transport infrastructures to improve efficiency and reduce environmental impact. These initiatives are part of the wider effort led by Adelan to demonstrate hydrogen’s potential in the transport sector, emphasizing the scalability and versatility of fuel cells for different applications
(source: RailBusinessDaily)
Real-World Use Cases:
Hydrogen fuel cells are being used in a range of applications, from hydrogen-powered buses that reduce emissions in urban environments to stationary power systems providing electricity in remote locations.
Debunking Hydrogen Myths
Despite concerns about safety and cost, Dr. Kendall’s work demonstrates that hydrogen fuel cells are safe and efficient, particularly when using innovative technologies like microtubular solid oxide fuel cells. These cells are compact, flexible in terms of fuel, and provide rapid start-up, making them more practical for various uses, from residential to industrial. Dr. Kendall emphasizes the importance of international collaboration in dispelling myths and moving toward a clean hydrogen future
(source: Climate Change Solutions)
Links to Interesting Articles and Reports
- Women in Green Hydrogen: A profile of Dr. Michaela Kendall and her career.
- Mission Innovation: Insights on hydrogen technologies, international collaborations, and policy implications.
- WHEC 2022: Information on Dr. Kendall’s participation in the World Hydrogen Energy Conference and her discussion on hydrogen strategies.