They have been used by NASA since the 1960s and more recently to power the space shuttle. Also a popular energy source for years on military bases, increasing oil prices and the deregulation of the electricity supply industry have made fuel cells an attractive alternative for private energy suppliers, hospitals, large computer firms, and the automotive industry. Ramapo is in the forefront of fuel cell energy production on college campuses. This second fuel cell should be fully operative in November. In fact, Alagna is hard pressed to think of any disadvantages to the fuel cell and runs down a long list of advantages.
Peace of mind is a big one.
Although the fuel cells are not the primary source of energy at Ramapo, they significantly reduce the amount purchased from the utility company and the backup provided ensures that the campus can produce enough energy during an emergency situation or temporary loss of power. Cutting costs and saving money is a another major advantage of this new technology. Added to the financial factors are other savings. The water given off as a by-product of the process is usable for heat, drinking water, and domestic purposes including showering and laundering. Low maintenance is an added plus of the technology.