Fuel Cells

Solid-oxide fuel cells use specially engineered ceramic plates, catalysts, and high temperature to convert fuel directly into electricity through a clean electrochemical process rather than combustion. The fuel cells currently run on propane, but can easily be configured to accept other fuels. Eventually, the county hopes to run the fuel cells using only water.

"Projects like these," Honda said, "where Congress, Santa Clara County, the Department of Energy, and Silicon Valley partnered together to power the 911 Communications Facility, exemplify how the public and private sectors can effectively come together for the common good."

Officials hope that by adopting these technologies, governments will demonstrate their effectiveness and scalability, fostering wider uses and applications.