Energy Department Awards Jeff Serfass for Industry Leadership

“Jeff Serfass is an icon in the hydrogen industry, and is deserving of DOE’s recognition. At the CHBC, Jeff continues tirelessly to provide vision and leadership. It’s no secret that Jeff is a large part of CHBC’s continued growth”, stated Mark Abramowitz, CHBC President.

Dr. Sunita Satyapal, DOE’s Manager of the Hydrogen and Fuel Cells Program presented the award thanking Mr. Serfass for his former role as President of the National Hydrogen Association alongside the leaders of the Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Energy Association and the former U.S. Fuel Cell Council at DOE’s 2013 Annual Merit Review.

“This special award recognizes the outstanding collaboration and commitment demonstrated by the leaders of the former U.S. Fuel Cell Council and the National Hydrogen Association in coming together to create a new and unified fuel cell and hydrogen industry stakeholder association,” Dr. Satyapal announced, adding that “Jeff’s service over more than 22 years is especially well known for his outstanding support of student education and outreach. He continues to be a very strong advocate for hydrogen energy in numerous other venues, always ensuring that hydrogen and fuel cells are well represented as he branches out into other clean energy technology areas.”

Mr. Serfass, along with 10 companies in 1988, created the first meeting from which the National Hydrogen Association (NHA) was born. For the two decades following, the NHA grew into an international association of more than 120 organizations, a budget of nearly two million dollars per year and a globally recognized annual event, the NHA Hydrogen Conference and Expo, was the longest running annual hydrogen event in the world. In addition to Mr. Serfass’ continuing active industry leadership as Managing Director of the CHBC, he shapes the future of the industry in his role as President of the Hydrogen Education Foundation, which produces innovative national competitions and events such as the 2012 Washington Fuel Cell Summit.

“I’m honored to be recognized for work we started long ago and am so happy to receive it surrounded by so many close colleagues and friends,” said a still surprised Serfass.

Co-Awardees Morry Markowitz, Fuel Cell & Hydrogen Energy Association (far left); Jeff Serfass, National Hydrogen Association & California Hydrogen Business Council (center left); and Robert Rose, U.S. Fuel Cell Council (far right) with award presenter Dr. Sunita Satyapal, U.S. Department of Energy (center right)

###

About the California Hydrogen Business Council

The California Hydrogen Business Council is comprised of organizations and individuals involved in the business of hydrogen. Its mission is to advance the commercialization of hydrogen in transportation and stationary sources to reduce emissions and dependence on foreign oil. More information at www.californiahydrogen.org