Hydrazine was examined as a fuel for a solid-oxide fuel cell (SOFC) that employed atypical nickel-based anode. An in situ catalytic decomposition of hydrazine at liquid state under room temperature and ambient pressure before introducing to the fuel cell was developed by applying a Ba0.5Sr0.5Co0.8Fe0.2O3-delta (BSCF) oxide catalyst. Catalytic testing demonstrated that liquid N2H4 can be decomposed to gaseous NH3 and H-2 at a favorable rate and at a temperature as low as 20 degrees C and H-2 selectivity reaching values as high as 10% at 60 degrees C. Comparable fuel cell performance was observed using either the in situ decomposition products of hydrazine or pure hydrogen as fuel. A peak power density of similar to 850 MW cm(-2) at 900 degrees C was obtained with a typical fuel cell composed of scandia-stabilized zirconia and La0.8Sr0.2MnO3 cathode. The high energy and power density, easy storage and simplicity in fuel delivery make it highly attractive for portable applications.