The Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology Inc. said a recent meeting at at the 2015 Fuel Cell Seminar & Energy Exposition demonstrated the state’s position as a world leader in the research, development, and manufacture of hydrogen and fuel cell technology.
Connecticut is host to two of the largest fuel cell companies in the world. “We have well-established companies and organizations that are working collaboratively to move Connecticut’s hydrogen and fuel cell industry forward,” said Joel Rinebold, director of the energy initiative at the Connecticut Center for Advanced Technology.
During a plenary session, industry participants confirmed the need to reduce costs and develop strategies to enhance the value for cleaner, more efficient technologies to capture a larger market share. In addition, increased education regarding the advantages of hydrogen and fuel cell technology was cited as critical to industry growth.
Rick Ross, associate director, statutory and infrastructure programs at the Connecticut Green Bank, said the bank’s model of using limited public funds to attract larger private capital investment in clean energy is a proven method for achieving that objective. He said the Green Bank has successfully attracted and invested over $630 million. It is perceived as leading the way for several states to follow suit in creating green banks.
