Hydrogen and fuel cells are deemed to play an important part in the future energy supply landscape. The ongoing discussion concerning climate change and depletion of conventional energy resources, as well as the policy-driven aim to reduce energy dependency from certain countries have lead to strong research and development activities in the field of sustainable energy supply involving hydrogen as an energy carrier.
Focus of this paper is a hydrogen and fuel cell expert system, based on work done within the EU FP6 Integrated Project "Roads2HyCom". It consists of an interactive website based on a wiki frontend, allowing excellent interaction between site visitors and editors. It covers the state-of-the-art analysis of all parts of the hydrogen technology tree, from its production and transport to storage and conversion. The site also covers socio-economic, safety and security issues, as well as a detailed review of research and development activities throughout Europe. Visitors seeking information on hydrogen infrastructure or the analysis of needs and capabilities of hydrogen communities will find dedicated sections explaining these issues.
A handbook for (prospective) hydrogen and fuel cell communities is also available, representing a flexible feasibility study adaptable to the visitor's needs.
Multiple interactive features have been implemented to facilitate user communication. Alongside its discussion areas for experts and stakeholders, a dedicated "Expert Search" allows users to search for specific expertise among the other site users.
Participation is free and new members are invited to join this unique forum for hydrogen and fuel cell expertise. Website: www.ika.rwth-aachen.de/r2h.