Introducing a 21st century technology in a 17th century monument building will reduce CO2 emissions by 50%. Using this innovative local energy generation technology will enable the building to provide its own electricity. Fuel cell technology is quite a broad field that requires experience from many different disciplines: from chemistry to material sciences and all the way through to engineering and thermodynamics. Because fuel cells are very efficient and do not burn the fuel through a combustion process, the fuel cells do not produce large quantities of greenhouse gases, such as Carbon Dioxide (CO2), Methane (CH4) and Nitrogen Oxide (NOx). The only emissions from fuel cells are water, in the form of steam, and low levels of carbon dioxide. The purpose of the implementation of the fuel cell technology in the centre of Amsterdam is to learn more about the technology, its implementation, and its performance: this is a true Proof of Concept. A secondary purpose of the proof of concept is the investigation of the regulatory framework and recommendations for optimizing those regulations that make fuel cell technology economically viable. During the two year trial period, the performance of the fuel cell will be monitored and experience will be gained in implementing this technology. Amsterdam Smart City supports the organisation with the implementation of this pilot.
