In this study time-efficient size controlled synthesis of stable Pd nanoparticles was carried out using microwave heating method by the decomposition of palladium chloride with glucose in aqueous medium using poly(ethyleneglycol) as capping agent. The benefit of the synthesis is that it was achieved in only 20 s. The synthesized Pd nanoparticles were characterized by UV–Visible spectroscopy, transmission electron microscopy, X-ray diffraction, and particle size analysis. The relative rates of electro-oxidation of formic acid, methanol and ethanol measured by cyclic voltammetry showed that efficiency of Pd nanoparticles as catalyst followed the order: formic acid < methanol < ethanol. The current–voltage characteristics improved with increase in either electrolyte (NaOH) or fuel concentrations but decreased with further increase in NaOH concentration.