Breakthrough Technologies Institute Releases Report on State Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Activity

WASHINGTON--May 1, 2006--Tax credits, public benefit funds, interconnection standards - many states have begun to implement initiatives, policy and partnerships to help bring fuel cells and hydrogen to commercialization while bringing economic prosperity and environmental relief to their towns. Breakthrough Technologies Institute, the parent organization of Fuel Cells 2000 (www.fuelcells.org), has just released State Activities That Promote Fuel Cells and Hydrogen Infrastructure Development, a comprehensive state-by-state analysis of these activities.

As concern for energy security grows in the United States, legislation and policy at the state-level becomes almost as important as at the federal level. Fuel cells and hydrogen are now being regarded as technologies that can alleviate the United States' dependence on foreign oil, reduce harmful emissions, and create thousands of new jobs. 47 states and the District of Columbia have some sort of fuel cell or hydrogen legislation, demonstration or activism taking place today. Many are laying the groundwork in their regulations and energy standards for these technologies.

"Everyone knows that big states like California are heavily invested in fuel cells and hydrogen, but people may not be aware of Arkansas' Fuel Cell Energy Education Project or Delaware's Clean Energy Performance Grants," says Jennifer Gangi, program director, Fuel Cells 2000. "We are hoping this report becomes a valuable tool for local, state and federal officials across the United States looking to adopt similar legislation, policies and programs that will help both their state and the industry move forward for the good of their citizens, the environment and energy security."

This report details state programs and incentives that specifically include hydrogen, fuel cells and zero emission vehicles. Each state listing is divided into categories reflecting the type of incentive or support provided by state or municipal governments: Plans/Strategies, Standards/Regulations, Public Agency Policies/Purchasing Programs, Incentives/Market Stimulation, Partnerships, RD&D Support, Emerging Business, and State and Locally-Supported Demonstrations.

The 230-page report is available FREE at http://www.fuelcells.org/info/StateActivity.pdf.