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What We Do at the CERL?

At the Clean Energy Research Laboratory (CERL) at Ontario Tech University, we are dedicated to pioneering clean energy technologies with a strong focus on hydrogen and integrated energy systems. Our research contributes to advancing sustainable energy solutions that address climate change, enhance energy security, and support economic development.

Our Research Areas

1. Hydrogen Production

We develop innovative hydrogen production methods using renewable energy sources, water electrolysis, and advanced thermochemical cycles. Our focus is on increasing efficiency, reducing costs, and minimizing environmental impact.

2. Hydrogen Storage and Distribution

Efficient storage and transportation are critical to hydrogen’s role in the global energy transition. Our research explores novel storage materials, high-pressure and cryogenic systems, and hydrogen carrier technologies to enable safe and cost-effective distribution.

3. Fuel Cell Technologies

Fuel cells are key to unlocking hydrogen’s potential in transportation, power generation, and industrial applications. We work on improving fuel cell efficiency, durability, and performance, while exploring next-generation materials and system designs.

4. Hydrogen Applications in Industry & Transportation

Hydrogen can significantly decarbonize industrial processes and transportation. Our research focuses on its use in:

  • Zero-emission vehicles (fuel cell cars, trucks, buses, trains, and aviation).
  • Industrial processes, including steelmaking, ammonia production, and petroleum refining.
  • Power generation, supporting grid stability and energy storage.

5. Integrated Energy Systems (Multigeneration)

We explore integrated energy systems that efficiently combine multiple energy sources to maximize sustainability and performance. Multigeneration systems allow simultaneous production of electricity, heat, cooling, hydrogen, and other valuable outputs from a single energy source. Our work focuses on:

  • Hydrogen-integrated microgrids for decentralized energy solutions.
  • Cogeneration (CHP) and trigeneration systems using hydrogen and other clean fuels.
  • Hybrid renewable energy systems that combine solar, wind, and hydrogen storage for continuous power supply.
  • Waste heat recovery technologies to improve system efficiency and reduce emissions.

6. Techno-Economic & Environmental Analysis

We conduct life-cycle assessments, cost-benefit analyses, and policy research to evaluate the economic feasibility, environmental benefits, and scalability of hydrogen and integrated energy systems. Our findings help guide investment and policy decisions for a sustainable energy transition.

Why It Matters

The global shift to clean energy is essential for reducing carbon emissions, improving energy security, and fostering economic growth. Hydrogen and integrated energy systems play a pivotal role in this transition. At CERL, we are driving innovation, collaborating with industry partners, and contributing to Canada’s clean energy leadership through cutting-edge research and development.