Siemens fuel cell activities concentrate on solid oxide fuel cell (SOF
C) and polymer-electrolyte-membrane fuel cell (PEM FC) development, an
d direct methanol fuel cell (DMFC) research. Commercial application ha
s, to date, been achieved in the field of PEM FCs for air-independent
propulsion. A specific development project is being conducted aimed at
the verification of an innovative cell concept to match the competiti
ve cost of PEM FCs. SOFC development aims at decentralized power and c
ombined heat and power (CHP) plants. Following the success achieved in
the 10-kW class, a first prototype system with a power rating of 100
kW is scheduled for the year 2001. Achieving a cost advantage over com
petitive technologies is to be seen as the driving force behind all ef
forts. (C) 1998 Elsevier Science S.A.