The "Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Network Nordrhein-Westfalen" was called into being in spring 2000 in order to concentrate and to intensify the various activities of companies and research institutes in the field of fuel cell technology in Nordrhein-Westfalen. The network’s objectives include:

• Introducing the fuel cell into early markets as bridges for the mass market

• Supporting the development of the fuel cell and of adapted system components accompanied by a targeted basic research

• Supporting the establishment of a ready-to-market and sustainable hydrogen energy economy

• Positioning Nordrhein-Westfalen as an internationally recognized location for the fuel cell and hydrogen technology