The status of the hydrogen and fuel cell innovation system in Iran

Hydrogen energy in combination with fuel cell technology plays an important role in addressing the growing energy demand in the coming decades. This paper analyses the functional and structural factors which affect the development of this technology in Iran. We apply the Technological Innovation System (TIS) approach. The analysis shows that compared to the progress of the Hydrogen and Fuel Cell Technology (HFCT) in leading countries, Iran is far behind the desired phase of development. This gap is partly explained due to the weak structure and functions of the HFCT system in Iran. Thus, the technology has remained in the demonstration phase for a long time. The analytical results show that the fulfillment of "entrepreneurial activities" is required for the transition of the technology to the pre-commercial phase. In turn, considerable financial resources are needed to accomplish "entrepreneurial activity". Considering the current situation of renewable energy resources in Iran, supportive laws and regulations are urgently needed as prerequisites for the mobilization of financial resources. (C) 2014 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.