Cleantech -- Fuel Cells and Batteries

Both fuel cells and batteries produce energy without burning fossil fuels. Both are enjoying unprecedented growth as a result of the need for reliable backup power, larger automotive batteries, smaller, more compact products for electronics, and new ways to look at electrical power generation. Both types of power generation decrease greenhouse gas emissions.

A fuel cell generates electricity without combustion, from an electrochemical reaction in which oxygen and a fuel (often hydrogen) combine to form water. Fuel cells produce high quality electricity, are quiet in their operation, are long lasting, and will continue to create power as long as the fuel and oxygen are supplied to the cell. A fuel cell running on pure hydrogen is a zero-emission power source. Fuel cell technology can be used to power automobiles, machinery, electronics, and other energy conversion devices.

Batteries convert chemical energy to electrical energy through one or more cells connected to one another. Batteries are produced in two forms: primary and secondary batteries. Primary batteries can be used only once, while secondary batteries (known as rechargeable batteries) can be used many times due to their reversed chemical reaction. Secondary battery demand in the U.S. is expected to increase at a rate of 6.9% each year until 2009 ($9.6 billion of the total battery market). The main advantages of batteries are their availability, portability, and low cost.

Morrison & Foerster has been leading the way in the Cleantech sector for decades, having represented clients in related industries for more than 30 years. During this time, the firm has counseled a broad range of investors, emerging companies, and established companies that are making huge strides in fuel cell and battery innovation in order to bring new technologies and products to the marketplace. Morrison & Foerster’s Cleantech attorneys are dedicated to representing clients in the evolving sustainability sectors and combine an in-depth knowledge of science, technology, and regulations to offer counsel with the expertise needed for companies to succeed. Advising clients in these multifaceted sectors requires years of experience throughout the practice areas that are key to Cleantech, including Corporate, Energy, Finance, Land Use and Environmental Law, Litigation, Patent/Intellectual Property, Tax, Technology Transactions, and Venture Capital. The firm’s attorneys work closely with those in related practice groups to bring clients a full set of skills and integrated expertise to ensure that their needs are appropriately met.