At the Schatz Energy Research Center (SERC) on California's North Coast, we are working to establish clean and renewable energy technologies in our society. We design and build prototype proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells and integrate them into complete power systems. We also provide energy education for K-12,undergraduate, and graduate students; business and service groups; and the general public, and we design and build PEM fuel cells for educational demonstrations and hands-on laboratory activities. As scientists and engineers, we are dedicated to our research. As teachers, we are passionate about educating people of all ages about the exciting potential of the hydrogen economy.



Our Mission



Americans are accustomed to low priced and abundant energy supplies. Compared to other commodities in our daily lives -- a kilowatt-hour of electricity costs about as much as a stick of gum -- the energy (electricity and natural gas) that we buy is a bargain. Gasoline is nearly as cheap, in real terms, as it has ever been. This situation has led us to be profligate in our energy use and careless about our energy future.



The energy sources we choose have an enormous impact on our lives. The quality of our air, water, and soil, and thus our health, all depend on our energy choices. In determining our energy path, we are directly affecting our future and the future of generations to come.