Market and Feasibility Analysis of Non-conventional Technologies

Abstract

High-temperature fuel cells systems (HTFCs) can be used in more demanding applications where larger systems are required and/or additional heat is useful. They have the possibility of generating extra electrical power, improving the overall system electrical efficiency to nearly 70%, but also the possibility of using cogenerated heat (or cold) and thereby increasing total energy efficiency to 90%. Either of these options brings down the cost per unit of energy even if the capital cost of the system is high: though stationary systems will be expected to have a lifetime of 40,000 h (five years continuous running). The costs associated with fuel cells are not yet clear–either from a capital or operating perspective. Current costs are well above conventional technologies in most areas, though this depends slightly on the type of fuel cell and the market area in which it may play a part. The Waste-to-Energy chain could be a niche market for the HTFCs, which can play a very central role, reducing dependence from fossil fuels, reducing CO₂ emissions and accelerates the development of a large-scale market penetration.