A dual purpose fuel cell configuration generates electricity and oxygen-depleted inert gases. The inert gaseous outflows are then applied to fuel tanks comprising electric compartments, fuel tanks, battery compartments, storage cavities, and refrigeration containers. Due to the low oxygen concentration in the generated gas, applications for these inerted gases range from fire prevention, fire suppression, and fumigation, to preservation of perishables, refrigeration, food and beverage preparation, and oxidation prevention.