The fuel cell system, designed by Toyota Motor, could supply both heat and electricity to households and reduce energy consumption by 13.3 per cent, reports Kyodo News.

The high-tech device can generate one kilowatt of electricity that then powers a co-generation system which is capable of supplying electricity and heat to four rooms.

In addition, the system could reduce the average household carbon dioxide emission level by 22.7 per cent.

The fuel cell technology has been undergoing testing at a Nagoya condominium for staff members of the 2005 World Exposition conference.

Scientists are expected to continue monitoring the experiment over the coming month to assess the ability of the system to help improve household energy efficiency and combat climate change.