Enjoy complimentary customisation on priority with our Enterprise License!
The fuel cell market size is forecast to increase by USD 25.26 billion at a CAGR of 30.57% between 2023 and 2028. The market's growth is influenced by several factors, including increasing R&D activities, rising initiatives to promote the use of hydrogen fuel, and the growing adoption of microgrids. Enhanced R&D efforts drive innovation and development of advanced technologies, expanding market possibilities. Initiatives aimed at boosting hydrogen fuel usage support the transition to cleaner energy sources, reducing carbon footprints, and enhancing sustainability. Meanwhile, the adoption of microgrids improves energy resilience and efficiency, catering to diverse energy needs and supporting grid modernization efforts. These factors collectively contribute to a dynamic and evolving market landscape, fostering advancements and sustainability in the sector.
For More Highlights About this Report, Download Free Sample in a Minute
The rising initiatives to increase the usage of hydrogen fuel is a key trend in the market. Fuel cells, a clean energy technology, offer significant potential for reducing greenhouse gas emissions in various sectors, including transportation and utilities. However, their higher upfront costs have hindered widespread adoption. Governments worldwide, including the US, South Korea, Germany, Japan, and the UK, are investing in Research and Development (R&D) programs to reduce costs and increase deployment. In the US, the National Energy Technology Laboratory, part of the US DOE, is spearheading several projects to improve commercial uptake of fuel cell technology. Fuel cell vehicles, such as FCEVs (Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles), are gaining attention in the transportation sector. Fuel cells and electrolyzers are interconnected technologies, with electrolyzers producing hydrogen that can be used as a clean energy source in fuel cells for generating electricity. Different types of fuel cells, like Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) and Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs), are being developed by manufacturers like Bloom Energy, Equinix, Ballard Power Systems, Plug Power, and FuelCell Energy.
Furthermore, water management is a crucial aspect of fuel cell systems. Innovative startups are focusing on improving fuel cell efficiency and reducing water usage. Regulatory frameworks and contracts are being established to support the transition to hydrogen-powered fuel cells. In the residential sector, they can provide clean fuel and reduce carbon footprint. Data centers and utilities are also exploring these for their needs. The International Energy Agency (IEA) has reported expansions and contracts in the market, indicating continued growth. Bloom Energy's tri-gen system is a notable innovation, generating power, heat, and hydrogen on-site. The transportation sector is expected to see significant growth in fuel cell adoption, with battery-electric vehicles serving as competitors. Governments and companies are collaborating to create a supportive regulatory framework for fuel cells. In addition, the solid oxide fuel cells market is gaining momentum as fuel cells become increasingly recognized for their efficiency and environmental benefits in energy production. The transition to fuel cell technology will contribute to reduced carbon emissions and a cleaner future. Hence, these factors are expected to drive the growth of the market in the forecast period.
The market encompasses various applications, including fuel cell vehicles (FCVs), transportation, residential, data centers, and utilities. Notable players in this sector include Equinix, Bloom Energy, and several fuel cell manufacturers such as Ballard Power Systems, and Plug Power. PEM fuel cells, specifically Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cells, are popular due to their efficiency and ability to operate at lower temperatures.
Get a glance at the market contribution of various segments Download PDF Sample
These fuel cells, also known as Polymer Electrolyte Membrane Fuel Cells (PEMFCs), are used in Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs) as part of the EV campaign to reduce environmental impact and GHG emissions. SOFCs (Solid Oxide Fuel Cells) and other alternative fuel cells like Alkaline fuel cells and Microbial fuel cells are also under development. Regulatory frameworks and contracts, including those in Connecticut, are driving expansions in this sector. Innovative newcomers are also contributing to the market through advancements in hydrogen-powered fuel cells, tri-gen systems, and carbon footprint reduction technologies. Key players are investing in research and development to improve water management and reduce the carbon emissions of fuel cell servers.
For more insights on the market share of various regions Download PDF Sample now!
Europe is estimated to contribute 36% to the growth of the global market during the forecast period. Technavio’s analysts have elaborately explained the regional trends and drivers that shape the market during the forecast period.
Another region offering significant growth opportunities to companies is North America. The North American market is experiencing continuous expansion, driven primarily by the US. This growth can be attributed to government subsidies and tax breaks, which encourage the adoption of clean technologies and fuel cells in particular. Fuel cells offer corporations independence from grid power and provide a dependable source while reducing carbon emissions. The European Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking (FCH JU) and the Global Energy Review have identified electric vehicles, PEMFCs, and data centers as key sectors for fuel cell implementation. Programs like the Ene-Farm and collaborations between companies such as Ceres/Bosch are further promoting the use of DMFCs and PEMFCs. UPS and data centers are also adopting fuel cells for their power needs, contributing to the market's growth.
The market is experiencing significant growth due to the increasing focus on reduced environmental impact and the adoption of clean energy technologies. The International Energy Agency (IEA) reports that FCEVs, including Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cells (PEM fuel cells) and Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs), are gaining popularity as they produce only water as a byproduct, reducing carbon emissions and carbon footprint. Key players in the market include Equinix, Ceres/Bosch, and Tri-gen Systems. These companies are developing advanced fuel cell technologies, such as the Tri-gen system, which generates hydrogen on-site for fuel cell use, and Data Center Uninterruptible Power Supply (UPS) systems that use DMFCs and PEMFCs for backup power. Regulatory frameworks are being established to support the market, with initiatives like the Ene-Farm program encouraging the use of fuel cells for renewable energy storage and grid support. The market is expected to continue growing as the demand for clean, efficient fuel sources increases. Our researchers analyzed the market research and growth data with 2023 as the base year, along with the key market growth analysis, trends, and challenges. A holistic analysis of drivers, trends, and challenges will help companies refine their marketing strategies to gain a competitive advantage.
The growing demand for efficient and clean energy sources is driving growth in the market. Fuel cells are an efficient and scalable technology for generating electricity and heat, with applications ranging from transportation to residential and industrial use. Notable fuel cell types include Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) and Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs). Fuel cell vehicles, such as Fuel Cell Electric Vehicles (FCEVs), are part of the EV campaign to reduce greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. Key players in the market include Equinix, and Fuel Cell manufacturers like Ballard Power Systems, and Plug Power.
Furthermore, water management is crucial in fuel cell operations. IEA reports that fuel cells produce emissions primarily in the form of water and heat, making them an attractive option for reducing carbon footprint in sectors like transportation, data centers, and utilities. Regulatory frameworks and contracts drive expansions in this field, with innovative startups like Tri-gen system and hydrogen-powered fuel servers also contributing to the energy technologies landscape. Therefore, these factors are expected to drive market growth during the forecast period.
One of the main challenges encountered by the market is the high cost of fuel cells. The market for fuel cell technology, particularly fuel cell vehicles (FCEVs), is currently facing challenges due to the high cost of fuel cells and hydrogen fuel. The production of hydrogen through electrolysis is energy-intensive and costly, leading to expensive fuel and fueling stations. The IEA anticipates cost reductions as technology advances and economies of scale are achieved. However, the high cost remains a significant barrier to widespread adoption. Fuel cell manufacturers like Ballard Power Systems, Plug Power, and FuelCell Energy are investing in research and development. Innovative newcomers, such as SOFCs, PEM fuel cells, alkaline fuel cells, and microbial fuel cells, are also entering the market.
Moreover, fuel cells are being used in various sectors, including transportation, residential, data centers, and utilities, to reduce environmental impact and GHG emissions. Regulatory frameworks and contracts for expansions are being put in place in regions like Connecticut to promote the use of clean energy technologies and reduce carbon footprints. Companies like Equinix and Bloom Energy are implementing tri-gen systems, which generate electricity, heat, and hydrogen-powered fuel, to increase efficiency and reduce carbon emissions. Hence, these factors are hindering the growth of the market during the forecast period.
The market research report includes the adoption lifecycle of the market, covering from the innovator’s stage to the laggard’s stage. It focuses on adoption rates in different regions based on penetration. Furthermore, the report also includes key purchase criteria and drivers of price sensitivity to help companies evaluate and develop their growth strategies.
Customer Landscape
Companies are implementing various strategies, such as strategic alliances, partnerships, mergers and acquisitions, geographical expansion, and product/service launches, to enhance their presence in the market.
Ballard Power Systems Inc. - The company offers fuel cells such as Fcgen Lcs Mea and FCveloCity 9SSL Mea.
The research report also includes detailed analyses of the competitive landscape of the market and information about 15 market companies, including:
Qualitative and quantitative analysis of companies has been conducted to help clients understand the wider business environment as well as the strengths and weaknesses of key market players. Data is qualitatively analyzed to categorize companies as pure play, category-focused, industry-focused, and diversified; it is quantitatively analyzed to categorize companies as dominant, leading, strong, tentative, and weak.
The market research report provides comprehensive data (region-wise segment analysis), with forecasts and estimates in "USD Billion" for the period 2024-2028, as well as historical data from 2018-2022 for the following segments.
The market is a significant sector in the energy industry, utilizing advanced technology to convert chemical energy into electricity through a fuel cell reaction. Fuel cells consist of vehicles, power generation, and portable applications. The technology is gaining momentum due to its environmental benefits, including zero emissions and high efficiency. Fuel cells use hydrogen as a fuel source, making them an attractive alternative to traditional fossil fuel-based power generation. The market for fuel cells is expanding, with various players investing in research and development to improve efficiency and reduce costs.
Furthermore, the market is driven by factors such as increasing demand for clean energy, government initiatives, and advancements in fuel cell technology. The market is expected to grow at a steady pace in the coming years, with major contributions from the power generation segment. The market encompasses vehicles, power generation, and portable applications, with hydrogen serving as the primary fuel source. The sector's growth is fueled by factors such as the increasing demand for clean energy, government initiatives, and advancements in fuel cell technology.
Market Scope |
|
Report Coverage |
Details |
Page number |
189 |
Base year |
2023 |
Historic period |
2018 - 2022 |
Forecast period |
2024-2028 |
Growth momentum & CAGR |
Accelerate at a CAGR of 30.57% |
Market growth 2024-2028 |
USD 25.26 billion |
Market structure |
Fragmented |
YoY growth 2023-2024(%) |
24.62 |
Regional analysis |
North America, Europe, APAC, Middle East and Africa, and South America |
Performing market contribution |
Europe at 36% |
Key countries |
US, Japan, Germany, UK, and China |
Competitive landscape |
Leading Companies, Market Positioning of Companies, Competitive Strategies, and Industry Risks |
Key companies profiled |
Ballard Power Systems Inc., Bloom Energy Corp., Ceres Power Holdings plc, Doosan Corp., FuelCell Energy Inc., Fuji Electric Co. Ltd., General Motors Co., Honda Motor Co. Ltd., Hyundai Motor Co., Intelligent Energy Ltd., KYOCERA Corp., Mitsubishi Heavy Industries Ltd., Niterra Co. Ltd., Panasonic Holdings Corp., Plug Power Inc., PowerCell Sweden AB, Proton Motor Fuel Cell GmbH, SFC Energy AG, Toshiba Corp., and Watt Fuel Cell Corp. |
Market dynamics |
Parent market analysis, Market Forecasting, Market growth inducers and obstacles, Fast-growing and slow-growing segment analysis, COVID-19 impact and recovery analysis and future consumer dynamics, Market condition analysis for the market forecast period |
Customization purview |
If our report has not included the data that you are looking for, you can reach out to our analysts and get segments customized. |
We can help! Our analysts can customize this market research report to meet your requirements.
1 Executive Summary
2 Market Landscape
3 Market Sizing
4 Historic Market Size
5 Five Forces Analysis
6 Market Segmentation by Product
7 Market Segmentation by Application
8 Customer Landscape
9 Geographic Landscape
10 Drivers, Challenges, and Opportunity/Restraints
11 Competitive Landscape
12 Competitive Analysis
13 Appendix
Get lifetime access to our
Technavio Insights
Quick Report Overview:
Cookie Policy
The Site uses cookies to record users' preferences in relation to the functionality of accessibility. We, our Affiliates, and our Vendors may store and access cookies on a device, and process personal data including unique identifiers sent by a device, to personalise content, tailor, and report on advertising and to analyse our traffic. By clicking “I’m fine with this”, you are allowing the use of these cookies. Please refer to the help guide of your browser for further information on cookies, including how to disable them. Review our Privacy & Cookie Notice.