Each of the fuel cell types currently being developed or manufactured
has features that make it particularly attractive for certain
applications. For example, the greater efficiency and higher
temperature operation of MCFCs and SOFCs make them more amenable
to large stationary power generation where high grade waste heat
can be utilized to heat water or air or to provide cooling.
Conversely, the lower operating temperature fuel cells like PEMFCs
and PAFCs are particularly well suited for transportation applications
where the heat is neither usable nor desirable.
The three principle applications for fuel cells include: