Abstract
Executive Summary
The past year has seen a number of key developments in the portable fuel cell
sector. While 2008 did not live up to be quite the breakthrough year that had
been widely expected in terms of consumer electronics shipments, shipments of
portable fuel cells did remain buoyant, particularly in important niches such
as fuel cell toys and military units. 2009 appears to be a key year as several
larger electronics original equipment manufacturers (OEMs) as well as smaller
fuel cell companies working for original development manufacturers (ODMs) move
closer to the sale of units, particularly in the portable battery charger
space.
Work continues on technical challenges such as durability and power density,
miniaturisation of components, and improved reliability. Although we are yet
to see the fi rst mass production facilities for portable fuel cells, the
launch of mass market products remains possible in the near future. Changes to
the fi nancial structure of several of the principal players during 2009
suggests that the market is developing fast with CMR Fuel Cells, MTI Micro and
Medis Technologies recently de-listing or preparing to de-list from their
respective stock exchanges, and Lilliputian Systems raising $28 million for
their butane-powered fuel cell charger.
About the author
Dr. Jonathan Butler works as Asia Analyst for Fuel Cell Today. His interests
include how hydrogen and fuel cells fi t in to the climate change and
environmental sustainability debates and the legislative, policy and
intellectual property aspects of hydrogen and fuel cells. He is also
interested in portable and transport applications of fuel cells.
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