Focus area: Demand response

Distributed negative emission SOFC power

Submitted by

SOFC.nl Holding B.V.

Solution/product description

The project was initiated by Liberty Global seeking an innovative solution to power networks using small SOFC fuel cells. This provides the opportunity to use other fuels than hydrogen, which is important for logistics when operating in various countries worldwide. The solution provides grid-fail safe power, without the emissions of combustion engine based power generation and at an efficiency of GW power plants. Also ample ohmic losses are avoided when working with distrubuted power. SOFC type fuel cells also offer the use of bio-fuels like ethanol, so it offers net zero emission of CO2. Negative emisssions are also possible, while SOFC's enable capture of pure CO2. Now adding power to network becomes possible in a scalable way and avoiding emissions.

How does your project address / improve the focus area (Monitoring and Measurement, Demand Response, Supply and Control)?

The project addresses the demand by directly supplying additional power at the source where it is required. In this way power resources can be kept to a minimum and power can be delivered when necessary.

What was your inspiration for your project?

Already for years I was working on other application for small SOFC fuel cells. But when Sam Khola of Liberty Global approached me it was clear that he knew what he wanted: small SOFC power in the network, providing sustainability of power in the network and increased reliability in case of weak grids. I was convinced right away that this is a top application for small SOFC fuel cells!

What is the single most exciting thing about your project?

The potency to deliver power to cable networks at zero or even net negative CO2 emissions and at the same time ensure data delivery even when the local grid fails.

Why did you decide to take part in the Adaptive Power Challenge?

Partner Liberty Global suggested it and we found it a great idea.