Topic: Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Education at California State University, Los Angeles
Location: Los Angeles, California USA
Project objective: California State University, Los Angeles, has partnered with the Department of Energy in addressing the workforce preparation and public education needs of the fuel cell industry and the US economy through a comprehensive set of curriculum development and training activities:
- Developing and offering several courses in fuel cell technologies, hydrogen and alternative fuels production, alternative and renewable energy technologies as means of zero emissions hydrogen economy, and sustainable environment.
- Establishing a zero emissions PEM fuel cell and hydrogen laboratory supporting curriculum and graduate students’ teaching and research experiences.
- Providing engaging capstone projects for multi-disciplinary teams of senior undergraduate students.
- Fostering partnerships with automotive OEMs and energy providers.
- Organizing and participating in synergistic projects and activities that grow the program and assure its sustainability
Conclusions
CSULA has been very successful in meeting and exceeding the objectives proposed in the grant. A comprehensive educational program was created. The work in ZEFC laboratory progressed with the solar installation that is powering the lab electrolyzer and the rest of the engineering building. Students will be continued to be challenged through industry and competition projects. CSULA is well poised to continue fuel cell and hydrogen educational and research efforts beyond current funding. Among future activities are operating the hydrogen station, participating in EcoCAR 2 competition and testing hydrogen purity in Southern California utilizing a high-quality GCMS. CSULA will also continue outreach and collaborations with the industry.