Challenges Researchers must overcome several obstacles if hydrogen is to become a major energy resource. NREL's research is directed towards resolving these issues. Potential The first widespread use of hydrogen as an energy source is likely to be in the transportation sector, where it will help reduce pollution. Internal combustion engines can be fueled with pure hydrogen, or hydrogen blended with natural gas. Vehicles can also be powered with hydrogen fuel cells, which are three times more efficient than a gasoline powered engine.
Fuel cells can also supply heat and electricity for homes and buildings.
The overall goal of DOE's Hydrogen Program is to replace 2 to 4 quads of conventional energy with hydrogen by the year 2010, and replace 10 quads per year by 2030. A quad is the amount of energy consumed by 1 million households.