A review of the state-of-the-art of solid polymer fuel cell (SPFC) dev
elopment is given. The international activities focus on cell performa
nce and stack design, materials research and gas processing, depending
an the application. The fastest progress is being made with respect r
o fuel cell development for transportation, but the specific advantage
s of SPFC make the system interesting for residential power supply sys
tems, for on-site power production and also for small, portable power
supplies.