In this paper, operating benefits from demand-side load management are evaluated for a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cell Power Plant (FCPP). For reliability modeling and evaluation of the PEM FCPP, a state-space generation model for a stand-alone PEM fuel cell that calculates the system availability and the expected energy not supplied (EENS) index has been developed. A systematic technique and detailed computer simulation software for a stand-alone PEM fuel cell station reliability assessment have been built. The suggested technique can be used for practical engineering applications to provide information for stand-alone FC generating station planning, design, and operation. The simulation results are obtained using the MATLAB software for a 5 kW stand-alone PEM fuel cell that supplies a typical residential house. (c) 2005 Elsevier B.V. All rights reserved.