Bloom Energy's 'Bloom Box' May Be the Future of Alternative Energy
Ben Preiss — February 22, 2010 — Eco
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At first glance, Bloom Energy seems to be yet another hyperbolic Silicon Valley start-up claiming to have produced a miracle in a box, yet succeeding only in disappointing naive optimists. But, Bloom Energy is no ordinary start-up; its 'Bloom Box' is already powering Google, eBay and FedEx.
Bloom Energy's 'Bloom Box' is a fuel cell with a twist, the twist being that it requires fuel input of natural gas or methane (rather than more complicated and less available hydrogen). The cell’s design also does not require expensive exotic metals like platinum or palladium. Two Bloom Boxes--each the size of a toaster--can power an average American home (one for a European home). The cells, however, must be connected to a device the size of a large refrigerator for fuel supply and power distribution.
Bloom Energy's goal? To get one into every backyard and basement from New York to Nanjing.
Bloom Energy's 'Bloom Box' is a fuel cell with a twist, the twist being that it requires fuel input of natural gas or methane (rather than more complicated and less available hydrogen). The cell’s design also does not require expensive exotic metals like platinum or palladium. Two Bloom Boxes--each the size of a toaster--can power an average American home (one for a European home). The cells, however, must be connected to a device the size of a large refrigerator for fuel supply and power distribution.
Bloom Energy's goal? To get one into every backyard and basement from New York to Nanjing.
Trend Themes
1. Alternative Energy Solutions - Bloom Energy's 'Bloom Box' represents a disruptive innovation in alternative energy solutions by providing a compact and efficient fuel cell.
2. Efficient Fuel Cells - Bloom Energy's use of natural gas or methane as fuel for their 'Bloom Box' fuel cells opens up opportunities for more widespread adoption and accessibility.
3. Decentralized Power Generation - The concept of having miniaturized Bloom Boxes in every backyard and basement presents a disruptive innovation in decentralized power generation.
Industry Implications
1. Energy - Bloom Energy's 'Bloom Box' has the potential to revolutionize the energy industry by offering a more sustainable and efficient power source.
2. Technology - The development of Bloom Energy's 'Bloom Box' showcases the potential for disruptive innovation within the technology industry through advancements in fuel cell technology.
3. Logistics - Companies in the logistics industry can take advantage of the benefits of Bloom Energy's 'Bloom Box' in terms of powering their operations more sustainably and cost-effectively.
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