Hydrogen fuel cells are promising power sources, although the public is not sufficiently aware of their potential. Fortunately, forward-thinking consumers can increase fuel cell adoption rates with approaches like these.
Provide Memorable Fuel Cell-Related Facts
Many people don’t have extensive knowledge of hydrogen fuel cells. That often means they hear a few sound bites and don’t explore the matter further.
However, campaigns to celebrate Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Day — which happens annually in the United States on Oct. 8 — share simple, memorable facts and encourage others to spread the word. For example, fuel cell technology is more than nine decades old, which surprises many people. Although the first use of hydrogen involved plowing alfalfa sprouts, it has been used for cars and NASA space shuttles.
People with active social media profiles or who love offering knowledge tidbits to those they know are in excellent positions to start dispelling some of the myths about hydrogen and providing more clarity. These actions could cause a ripple effect that results in more interest among the public.
Model Cara Delevigne recently teamed up with European energy company Vattenfall. The quirky campaign centered on a face mist made with a hydrogen plant’s wastewater. Although Vattenfall did not sell the limited-edition bottles, it offered free samples. The main goal was to reshape people’s perceptions of hydrogen while emphasizing its clean production.
Urge Local Authorities to Increase Hydrogen Usage
Consumers are well-positioned to pressure local service providers and tell them they want to see hydrogen fuel cells playing a bigger role in operations. Finding a new garbage removal service requires contacting the desired provider about fees and services. However, people should also get in touch to show their support for hydrogen fuel cells.
One Australian waste management provider recently announced plans to put a hydrogen-powered truck into service. It only takes 20 minutes to fuel and can do up to 1,500 bin lifts every day.
In Scotland, the Aberdeen City Council recently contracted with a provider to increase its number of hydrogen-powered heavy-duty vehicles. Road sweepers and tractors are tapped to benefit from this project.
Local service providers that receive ongoing feedback from consumers and other stakeholders motivate people to start or scale up fuel-cell-related campaigns.
Enjoy Hydrogen-Related Attractions When Possible
People traveling to new places may face challenges when deciding what to see and do. However, those serious about supporting hydrogen technology should aim to find diversions related to hydrogen. Although hydrogen is the Earth’s most abundant element, it’s not necessarily a frequent topic covered at the world’s museums.
That’s starting to change. The United Kingdom’s National Railway Museum launched a decarbonization theme in January 2023. A fuel cell from the first hydrogen-powered train used in the U.K. was among the items displayed in the exhibition, which remained until June 2023.
Elsewhere, the Tokyo Hydrogen Museum in Japan features six zones on its first floor and interactive displays. The attraction aims to teach schoolchildren about hydrogen’s main benefits. It’s also built more as an information center than a traditional museum, suggesting anyone interested in hydrogen’s use in modern society could appreciate it.
Consumers can use places like these to educate themselves and bring family members and friends. Supporting such attractions is a great way to show broader support for hydrogen as an energy source.
Consumers Play an Important Role in Stimulating Hydrogen Adoption
These are some of the many ways people can increase the chances of hydrogen use worldwide. Even if they don’t know much about the possibilities, there’s no harm in starting with basic knowledge and showing a hunger to learn.
Jane Marsh, Contributor
The views and opinions expressed herein are those of the authors and do not necessarily reflect the official policy or position of Fuel Cells Works, its directors, partners, staff, contributors, or suppliers. Any content provided by our contributors or authors are of their own opinion and are not intended to malign any religion, ethnic group, club, organization, company, individual or anyone or anything.
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