WHEC: Germany Marks New Era for Energy Storage and Fuel Cell Industry

BERLIN, May 14, 2010 - Germany has developed the most extensive framework for the
energy storage and fuel cell industry in the world, driven by the country's
unwavering commitment to renewable energies. International companies can
benefit from well coordinated support for R&D and pilot programs, an
export-oriented market and established industry expertise in this segment.
Germany Trade & Invest will be showcasing opportunities at this year's World
Hydrogen Energy Conference from May 16-21 in Essen, Germany. Additionally,
the organization will be introducing its comprehensive "Germany: Lead Market
for Energy Storage & Fuel Cell Systems" publication at the event, which
profiles specific market and research opportunities in fuel cells, hydrogen,
batteries and smart grids.

In 2009, electricity from renewable sources in Germany
increased to 16.1 percent of the total share. This figure is expected to
grow, as Germany has committed itself to supplying 30 percent of its
electricity with renewable sources by 2020 and 50 percent by 2030. The large
and growing share of renewable energies creates demand for energy storage
options, such as advanced battery, hydrogen and fuel cell technologies in
conjunction with smart meters and grids. These technologies serve several
purposes: to balance the fluctuating supply of renewable energy generation
and to make carbon dioxide-free power available for a vast array of mobile
and portable applications.

With over 70 percent of all hydrogen and fuel cell
demonstration projects in Europe, Germany has already taken the lead in
commercializing this technology. Over 350 companies and institutes are
already active in the industry in Germany. Half of all fuel cell revenues are
generated by exports, making Germany an excellent base to serve Europe for
companies looking to enter this developing market.

Jürgen Friedrich, Chief Executive of Germany Trade & Invest:
"Germany is taking the lead in energy storage through world-class research
and development and innovative market solutions. No other country has such a
comprehensive strategy, with industry players, research and development
institutes and government policy firmly committed to this industry."

A number of economic sectors are set to profit from the coming
shift. Materials, components, modules and systems are under development,
creating opportunities for businesses in a broad range of sectors. Companies
benefit from well established networks of industry partners along the entire
value chain.

German policy support is accelerating the industry's growth.
Research on energy technology is currently supported with EUR 2.2 billion for
the period 2008 to 2011. Additionally, the "H2 Mobility" initiative aims to
have a comprehensive nationwide infrastructure for hydrogen refueling in
place by 2015. Federal and regional institutions have created programs to
boost the entire industry spectrum, from R&D to market testing.

Germany Trade & Invest is the foreign trade and inward
investment promotion agency of the Federal Republic of Germany. The
organization advises foreign companies looking to expand their business
activities in the German market. It provides information on foreign trade to
German companies that seek to enter foreign markets.

    Eva Henkel
    eva.henkel@gtai.com
    Phone: +49(0)30-200099-173
    Fax: +49(0)30-200099-111

Eva Henkel, eva.henkel at gtai.com, Phone: +49(0)30-200099-173, Fax: +49(0)30-200099-111