Pinakin Patel to represent FuelCell Energy on CHBC's Board of Directors

Los Angeles, CA - The California Hydrogen Business Council announced the appointment of Pinakin Patel, Director of Special Systems and Research at FuelCell Energy (FCE) to the Board of Directors.

Mr. Patel has been heavily involved in pioneering FuelCell Energy's development of internal reforming fuel cells and tri-generation technology now available in FCE's Direct Fuel Cells (DFC). Pinakin and FCE's have generated headlines in 2011 with the start of operations of the Orange County Sanitation District's waste-water treatment plant in Fountain Valley, CA, which hosts a demonstration system of their DFC and produces heat, power, and hydrogen for vehicle fueling.

"FuelCell Energy joined the CHBC last year, to participate in the Council's emerging Hydrogen Energy Storage activities, and develop deeper business and government relationships in California. Now we see even more opportunities for our products and leadership and have decided to fully commit to the organization," Pinakin Patel stated.

"I have known Pinakin for most of his 30 years he's been involved in the hydrogen and fuel cell industry, and can attest first hand to his deep understanding of this industry," Jeff Serfass, Managing Director of the CHBC reminisced. "As a representative of both the stationary sector and providing fueling solutions for transportation, I am looking forward to his participation in the leadership of the CHBC during this transformative time for the industry," Serfass added.

As part of their Platinum membership package, FuelCell Energy is eligible to appoint one company representative to CHBC's Board of Directors, while receiving an array of other benefits, including increased recognition in CHBC activities.

See a complete listing of CHBC's Board of Directors at www.californiahydrogen.org