HyperSolar's path-breaking technology is based on the concept of developing a low-cost, submersible hydrogen production particle that can split water molecules using sunlight without any other external systems or resources - acting as an artificial photosynthesis. Unlike hydrocarbon fuels, such as oil, coal and natural gas, where carbon dioxide and other contaminants are released into the atmosphere when used, hydrogen fuel usage produces pure water as the only byproduct.
"Hydrogen fuel use for commercial and automotive consumption is well chronicled, leaving residential energy use as a relatively untapped market in terms of potential," said Tim Young, CEO of HyperSolar. "As our research and development teams at University of California, Santa Barbara, and the University of Iowa pursue commercialization, we believe that our technology will one day meet this need. Japan has continued to pioneer within the hydrogen fuel space, while overall global commitment in terms of hydrogen technology development and funding grows by the day. We are excited to be a part of this burgeoning industry as we seek new market opportunities created by these innovations, as well as others."
Backed by major Japanese manufacturers, including Panasonic, Japan has been aggressively pursuing a model that would add nearly 5.3 million units of hydrogen-powered home fuel cells to the domestic market. This action follows a recent speech from Japanese Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, who stated, "Hydrogen is the energy of the future. We've deregulated rules involving various ministries that used to hinder hydrogen development. The hydrogen society used to be a dream, and now it is about to become reality."
A selective niche of energy companies have already begun reducing costs to make the residential systems more affordable for mass consumption. For instance, South Korean steelmaker, Posco, which owns the largest stake in US-based FuelCell Energy, has licensed the Company's technology to develop systems for the Asian market. Companies including Plug Power have been commended for their smaller fuel cell models, such as the fuel cell systems being used to power forklifts for major retailers such as Ace Hardware and Walmart.
Bearing these new developments in mind, HyperSolar has identified the necessity to reduce costs in pursuit of mass adoption as a significant market opportunity. The Californian, Santa Barbara-based company is currently developing a completely renewable technology that can be implemented at or near the point of distribution for both large-scale commercial systems, as well as residential units, by reducing costs through eliminating expensive steps in the process and reducing the need for transportation.
Image credits: http://www.conserve-energy-future.com/
The post HyperSolar to Help Japan Meet Its Hydrogen-Powered Home Fuel Cells Goal appeared first on World Industrial Reporter.
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