Fueling the future: International experts in Columbia May 2 - 5 for meetings on alternative fuels

University of South Carolina researchers will join experts from North America, Europe and Korea to discuss the future of alternative fuels – and their impact on the economies of countries around the world – during two meetings this week at the Columbia Metropolitan Convention Center.

FuelCellSouth opens its fourth annual Southeastern Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Conference with "Hydrogen Day" on Wednesday. Highlights of the program include a discussion about hydrogen production, portable fuel cells, power generation and transportation, including hydrogen fueling stations and vehicle programs in South Carolina, North Carolina, Georgia, Alabama, Florida, Tennessee and Virginia. The conference ends Friday.

The University of South Carolina and the Korea Institute of Energy Research (KIER) are sponsors of the second annual Korea-USA Fuel Cell Symposium, a scientific and engineering forum that also opens Wednesday and continues through Saturday.

"Having research scientists from top universities around the world and key business and industry representatives gather in Columbia to discuss advances in alternative fuels proves that the Palmetto State is recognized as a leader in the hydrogen and fuel-cell economy," said University of South Carolina President Andrew Sorensen.

"The energy frontier presents challenges for business, industry, governments and scientists, but collaborations such as these prove that we already are making a difference in reducing our dependence on fossil fuels and developing new sources of fuel," he said.

At 9:30 a.m. Thursday, Sorensen will join Dr. Dae Hyun Shin, the KIER interim president; Kwang-jae Lee, the Korean Consulate General, and representatives from the Korean government, the U.S. Department of Energy and the National Science Foundation for a discussion of hydrogen and fuel-cell technologies.

Dr. Kenneth L. Reifsnider, an internationally recognized researcher who will lead the university's solid-oxide fuel-cell program, will speak at 11:30 a.m. Thursday. Reifsnider is a member of the prestigious National Academy of Engineering.

On Thursday, FuelCellSouth will present the 2007 Crystal Flame Innovation Awards, recognizing innovation and excellence in entrepreneurship, research and industry in the Southeast.

Visit www.fuelcellsouth.com and www.fuelcellsymposium.com for more information and schedules of daily events.