Critical Minerals and PEMFC Technologies

Proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) represent a transformative technology at the forefront of the clean energy transition, offering sophisticated electrochemical solutions for decarbonising multiple high-emission industrial sectors. These advanced energy conversion systems are pivotal in addressing climate challenges, particularly in transportation, heavy industry, and stationary power generation, where traditional fossil fuel technologies have dominated. The PEMFC sector confronts significant challenges, including high platinum catalyst costs, limited mineral supply chains, and durability constraints, while simultaneously presenting unprecedented opportunities for technological innovation and energy decarbonisation. Critical minerals such as platinum, iridium, and alternative catalyst materials are crucial in overcoming technological limitations, driving efficiency improvements, and enabling zero-emission solutions across hard-to-abate sectors like maritime shipping, long-distance trucking, aerospace, and distributed power generation. Despite complex geopolitical and economic constraints, PEMFC technologies are emerging as a key strategic pathway towards a more sustainable and resilient global energy infrastructure.