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Implementation potential of fuel cell systems for CHP: Threat and opportunity analysis

Abstract:

The extended use of the fuel cells for micro-generation applications is limited by the high initial cost, the low level of commercialisation, and the competition with other technologies which are at an advanced stage of development such as gas microturbines, internal combustion engines, etc. The aim of this paper is to present a feasibility analysis of the application of fuel cells for a combined heat and power system with grid connection in the tertiary sector. Although the analysis considers Spanish data, the methodology proposed is developed to be applicable at the EU level. The current legislative framework is analysed in order to establish the suitability of the retribution considered for the sale of surplus electricity from these systems. The paper also establishes criteria for the optimal design of distributed generation systems based on fuel cells from a technical, economic and environmental point of view, presenting the strategies that should be implemented to promote the future use of these systems and their progressive introduction to the market.