Yale University, state and local officials and FuelCell Energy Inc. recently dedicated Connecticut's first high-efficiency fuel cell power plant at the Environmental Science Center near Yale's Peabody Museum. "As a leader in environmental research and education, Yale is committed to operating its campus in an environmentally sound manner," said President Richard C. Levin. "We are pleased to work with the state in adding fuel cell technology developed in Connecticut to our efforts to meet our energy needs as efficiently and cleanly as possible." The 250 kilowatt fuel cell will provide approximately 25% of the building's electricity needs, with the heat being used primarily to maintain tight temperature and humidity controls at the facility. Although fueled with natural gas, the fuel cell generates electricity with no combustion, operating like a large battery. The high efficiency of the fuel cell reaction produces approximately 50% more electric power from less fuel. Additionally, since the fuel is not burned, there is none of the pollution commonly associated with the combustion of fossil fuels. "The location at the Yale Peabody Museum is very appropriate because the Environmental Science Center can effectively use both the electrical and heat output of the plant. It is further demonstration of universities as an ideal application for our Direct FuelCell products," said Jerry Leitman, chair and chief executive officer of FuelCell Energy. "Our fuel cells are operating all over the world and we are thrilled to have a customer site in our home state." Connecticut Governor John Rowland said that Connecticut's leadership in fuel cell technology is unsurpassed. "Fuel cells are a growing part of the industrial economy in Connecticut and projects like this help bring greater awareness of the benefits of fuel cells to our environment as well as to the stability and reliability of the electric power system here in Connecticut and the United States." The Connecticut Clean Energy Fund purchased the $1.25 million fuel cell power plant last year for use in the state, and the Connecticut Siting Council approved the Yale University location in December 2002. The Clean Energy Fund invests in enterprises and initiatives that help promote the development, production and use of energy from clean and renewable sources.
"Connecticut's leadership role in providing for a cleaner energy future is greatly enhanced and advanced by projects such as this," said Arthur Diedrick, chair of the Clean Energy Fund.
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