I am sympathetic to your view. I will also say that I find it hard to believe that every group focusing on this form of energy production, is acting foolishly.
There must be some basis for their research.
I’m not sure what happened with Pons and Flieshman. I do think that a reaction of sorts occurred. I suppose I could be wrong, but I do not believe these two sought to pull a hoax.
Evidently, enough other groups felt as I did to cause them to do research in this area.
In parting I’ll say this. This is 2012. Pons and Flieshman made their report a long time ago. By this time I would think this area of investigation would have been fully debunked if there was nothing at all there.
I still remain patiently waiting to see what may develop.
Researchers run out of something to do from time to time (I know from experience), and look around for a new topic. Energy is a great area to get funding, and E-cat-type stuff is full of naifs so why not have a go?
I don't believe F&P tried to pull a hoax -- I think they just screwed up -- they were talking about things they know little about.