The global proton exchange membrane fuel cell market size is anticipated to reach USD 27.23 billion by 2033, according to a new report by Grand View Research, Inc. The market is projected to grow at a CAGR of 22.4% from 2026 to 2033. The rising pressure across the globe to reduce carbon emissions through supporting energy safety is a factor supporting the growth of the PEMFC market. Government funding is being exchanged by business funding and which in turn displayed positive growth throughout the projected period. PEMFC is expected to emerge as the most dominant form of fuel cell owing to its ability to suit both transportation and stationary applications. It is a popular choice for transportation applications due to its unique characteristics that make it a suitable alternative to conventional power sources. Unlike other fuel cell technologies, PEMFCs can start quickly. This feature is crucial for applications in the transportation sector where quick startups are essential.
The market is likely to witness strategic alliances to expand end-user segments in emerging markets. Public-private partnerships are expected to be critical for attaining an economically viable technological shift. The introduction of sustainable technologies to replace the existing power generation technologies is anticipated to lead to high costs, which is projected to challenge the innovations carried out by key market players like Intelligent Energy Limited, Plug Power Inc., ITM Power PLC, Ballard Power Systems, PowerCell Sweden AB, Cummins Inc.
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In terms of revenue, the portable segment accounted for a significant share of the market in 2025 and is further expected to witness steady growth over the forecast period
Asia Pacific region is projected to grow at a substantial rate throughout the forecast period. Japan is expected to account for the maximum share in the Asia-Pacific region
Automotive segment dominated the industry, accounting for 65% of total market revenue in 2025. Growth in the automotive segment is propelled by rising demand for clean mobility solutions that deliver a long driving range with quick refueling.
Low temperature segment held the revenue share of over 56% in 2025. Low temperature PEM fuel cells continue to gain momentum because they operate efficiently at modest temperatures, which simplifies system design and supports fast start capability.
Grand View Research has segmented the global proton exchange membrane fuel cell market report based on application, type, material, and region
Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Application Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Automotive
Stationary
Portable
Others
Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Type Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021-2033)
High Temperature
Low Temperature
Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Material Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
Membrane Electrode Assembly
Hardware
Others
Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Regional Outlook (Revenue, USD Million, 2021 - 2033)
North America
U.S.
Canada
Mexico
Europe
Germany
UK
Spain
Italy
Netherlands
Asia Pacific
China
India
Japan
South Korea
Australia
Latin America
Brazil
Argentina
Middle East & Africa
Saudi Arabia
UAE
South Africa
Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Market
Altergy
AVL
Ballard Power Systems
Cummins Inc.
Horizon Fuel Cell Technologies
Intelligent Energy Limited
ITM Power PLC
Nedstack Fuel Cell Technology BV
Plug Power Inc.
PowerCell Sweden AB
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