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Sustainable bio-fuelled SOFC hybrid plants for zero-emissions dispatchable power generation

Aiming at zero-emission distributed power generation, one of the most promising solutions is represented by bio-fueled hybrid systems based on a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC).

Concluded

Start

2018-03-01

Conclusion

2021-12-31

Main financing

Collaboration partners

Research group

Project manager at MDU

No partial template found

About the project

Aiming at zero-emission distributed power generation, one of the most promising solutions is represented by bio-fueled hybrid systems based on a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC). Since previous works demonstrated that standard controllers are not able to comply with all the SOFC constraints, advanced approaches are necessary to operate sustainable SOFC hybrid plants. Moreover, predictive control approaches (MPC tools) will allow such hybrid system to provide the grid with zero-emission dispatchable power generation, which is a key enabling technology for further penetration of renewable sources. The proposed cooperation will be strategic for the project success.

MDH will bring in the expertise on adaptive control solutions and will provide the capability to access and modify the control system of the Turbec T100 microturbine. Additional acquired knowledge on components degradation will also be shared.

University of Genoa (UNIGE) will contribute with existing software tools, the expertise in real-time models and control development, and the available hybrid system emulator test rig based on the T100. The test rig (value higher than 1.0 Meuro) couples a microturbine with SOFC cathode and anode vessels through a cyber-physical approach: the components not physically present in the rig are simulated with a realtime model operating in parallel and controlling the plant. Information about components degradation will be virtually incorporated at the software level. This emulator rig will be used to test advanced control solutions for the entire hybrid plant.

This project is in line with existing Horizon 2020 Programme funded projects currently active at MDH and UNIGE. Moreover, the collaborations with the U.S. DOE-NETL, Ansaldo Energia, and First Control will complete the knowledge on SOFC degradation and T100 control system. Exchange of PhD students and/or Postdoctoral fellows between institutions will be an additional value of the project.