University of Birmingham host 2015 Fuel Cell & Hydrogen Technical Conference

The University of Birmingham hosted the 2015 Fuel Cell & Hydrogen Technical Conference at the Millennium Point in Birmingham on Tuesday 19 - Thursday 21 May 2015.

The conference brought together experts in fuel cell and hydrogen research and application from across Europe to discuss the technical developments and trends within the science and technology industry.

Chaired by Professor Robert Steinberger-Wilckens, Director of the Birmingham Centre for Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Research, the conference welcomed esteemed speakers from UK Universities and businesses including Innovate UK and AFC Energy.

The conference explored the following key themes:

• Fuel Cells - Materials and Processes
• Hydrogen Production, Storage and Infrastructure
• Socio-Economics, Marketing and Strategy
• Current Fuel Cell Projects
• Public Outreach
• Student Projects

In addition to the technical focus of the conference, there was an outreach and engagement strand which aimed to inspire local students. On Thursday 21 May, the University hosted a school activity for 12-13year olds titled ‘Alternative Energy: The Role of Fuel Cells & Hydrogen’ at Thinktank. 200 students from local schools attended the 90 minute lecture, followed by a project session, where research students had the opportunity to present their work.

Dr Aman Dhir, Teaching Fellow in Solid Oxide Fuel Cells and Centre Manger at the School of Chemical Engineering, University of Birmingham said:

We were proud to present this years’ Fuel Cells & Hydrogen Technical Conference to showcase our ethos of science, technology and further learning. The conference has increased in popularity over the years, attracting delegates from outside of the UK, from as far afield as Brazil. This year, for the first time, there was an opportunity for local schools to see the technology in action, raising aspirations amongst our youth.