Development Progress of a 70% Efficient Hybrid SOFC-I.C. Engine Hybrid System for Stationary Applications up to 1 MW

Abstract

Flexible and dispatchable, high-efficiency power generation supplied with carbon-neutral renewable fuels is needed to help enable defossilization of the electric grid. Pressurized, hybrid SOFC systems fueled with hydrogen, biogas, or renewable natural gas can generate clean power at ultra-high efficiency. In this summary, we provide an update on the development progress of a full-scale, hybrid system that targets low cost (<1000 $/kW) and ultra-high efficiency (70%-LHV) distributed power generation for applications up to 1 MW. The system features pressurized, metal-supported SOFC technology from Ceres Power which is integrated with a modified diesel engine which converts the residual chemical exergy in the anode tail-gas from the SOFC to drive auxiliaries and produce net additional power. Updates on critical hardware advancements around pressurized multi-stack, 30 kW fuel cell modules, low-speed high efficiency rotating equipment, and ultra-high efficiency power electronics are provided. A techno-economic outlook for such power generation systems in various stationary applications.

Development Progress of a 70% Efficient Hybrid SOFC-I.C. Engine Hybrid System for Stationary Applications up to 1 MW

“…In collaboration with Colorado State University, and Kohler Power Systems, the development effort aims to demonstrate a system that can generate power (125 kW) from carbon neutral fuels at high electric efficiency (>70%-LHV), and low cost (<1000 $/kW). Project development activities on the hybrid SOFC/IC engine system development include system and pressurized stack module design, model-predictive control, and critical balance-ofplant advancement and system integration [1].…”