Analyzing the potential of hydrogen fuel cell electric vehicles as distributed energy storage or generators to decarbonize transportation and power sectors

Decarbonizing the transportation sector and scaling up energy storage are critical for the transition to a net-zero economy. This project will study the potential of connecting fuel cell electric vehicles (FCEVs) to the electrical grid as distributed energy storage and/or electricity generators to supply electricity to the grid when needed. This FCEVs-to-grid pathway can maximize the benefits of the hydrogen infrastructure expansion in Canada to decarbonize both the transportation and power sectors, while providing incentives to FCEV owners. We will use heavy-duty trucks and trains, the potential early adopters of FCEVs, as two examples to identify the potential operation and technical constraints and evaluate the overall economic and environmental benefits.

Faculty Supervisor:

XiaoYu Wu

Student:

Partner:

The Transition Accelerator

Discipline:

Engineering

Sector:

Other services (except public administration); Professional, scientific and technical services; Utilities

University:

University of Waterloo

Program: