West Virginia University engineers have developed and tested a cutting-edge fuel cell technology that can seamlessly transition between storing or producing electricity and generating hydrogen, offering a solution to challenges faced by existing technologies. The Protonic Ceramic Electrochemical Cell (PCEC) designed by the researchers can function effectively at high temperatures and humidity levels, demonstrating remarkable stability and endurance over extended periods. The innovative design, led by Dr. Xingbo Liu and his team, has the potential to revolutionize the energy sector by bolstering the resilience of modern electrical grids, particularly in accommodating fluctuating renewable energy sources. The PCEC's ability to switch between energy storage and production modes without performance degradation over time sets it apart from previous designs. The research, detailed in a Nature Energy paper led by Hanchen Tian and Wei Li, highlights the successful development of large-scale CCS fuel cells that remain robust and flat under challenging conditions. By incorporating barium and nickel ions in the design to enhance water retention and cell stability, the team has paved the way for potential industrial applications of the technology. Supported by funding from the U.S. Department of Energy and recognized with the DOE Hydrogen Production Technology Award, the project signifies a significant leap in energy innovation. The next phase involves collaboration with the WVU Office of Innovation and Commercialization to bring the design closer to commercialization. The successful implementation of this groundbreaking technology could play a pivotal role in advancing the integration of renewable energy sources and ensuring the reliability of future power grids.