Fuel cells are of major importance for Germany because of their potentially broad application in the automotive sector, which forms a core element of Germany’s economy and global competitiveness). The opportunities for a generally cleaner and more secure supply of energy they offer are of similar importance. Fuel cells and the prospects of a hydrogen society correspond to the concern for the environment in the German society. These two aspects together with the scarcity of primary energy resources in Germany and the perceived risks of nuclear power have led to giving the use of renewable energy and energy efficiency high priority on the political agenda.