A recently described novel compound, silica hydride, was used to investigate potential alternative hydrogen energy sources for use in industry, pharmacology and biochemistry. Acting as an anionic hydride, the silica hydride does not react violently with water and produces stable oxidation-reduction potential readings of greater than -860 mV for extended periods providing capacity as an alternative for current transfer, hydrogen production and fuel cell applications in industrial arenas. In a biological venue, the silica hydride definitively reduces the pyridine NAD(+) to the NADH form, indicating potential for use as a biochemical fuel cell. Subsequent analyses of the compound indicate no induced cytotoxicity as a result of the silica hydride and the increased NADH in a cell. (C) 2003 International Association for Hydrogen Energy. Published by Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.