Fuel cell energy storage and power generation

What is a fuel cell based energy storage system?

A fuel cell-based energy storage system allows separation of power conversion and energy storage functions enabling each function to be individually optimized for performance, cost or other installation factors. This ability to separately optimize each element of an energy storage system can provide significant benefits for many applications.

Can a fuel cell be used as an energy storage device?

When used as an energy storage device, the fuel cell is combined with a fuel generation device, commonly an electrolyzer, to create a Regenerative Fuel Cell (RFC) system, which can convert electrical energy to a storable fuel and then use this fuel in a fuel cell reaction to provide electricity when needed.

What are the benefits of using fuel cells?

Use of fuel cells is quite advantageous as they produce very less noise during working and due to its location near the site. They are the cleanest source of power generation (3). Also, green emissions are very less and efficiency is more in the conversion of the fuel energy into power.

What are the applications of fuel cells?

Fuel cells have applications in other areas such as power generation and distributed power. Use of fuel cells is quite advantageous as they produce very less noise during working and due to its location near the site. They are the cleanest source of power generation (3).

How do fuel cells work?

Fuel cells are electrochemical devices that convert chemical energy into electrical energy through a controlled redox reaction. They are distinct from batteries in that they require a continuous supply of fuel and oxidant (usually oxygen) to operate, while batteries store their energy internally.

What is a fuel cell in a CHP system?

Fuel cells are often implemented as part of a CHP system, where the thermal energy from the fuel cell exhaust is recovered and used to heat or cool industrial facilities, district energy systems and commercial buildings.