DESIGN OPTIMIZATION OF INTEGRATED COAL GASIFICATION SOLID OXIDE FUEL CELL SYSTEMS

Integrated Gasification Fuel Cell (IGFC) power plants incorporating solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs) are attractive alternatives to traditional pulverized coal-fired and Integrated Gasification Combined Cycle (IGCC) power plants. IGFC systems are projected to achieve electrical generation efficiencies greater than 50% based on high heating value of coal, while separating at least 90% of the carbon dioxide emissions for capture and environmentally secure storage. A comprehensive IGFC system design and optimization study is presented based on recent SOFC performance testing and technology advancements. Details of the system power island cost break-down are also presented, indicating the cost-competitiveness of IGFC systems relative to other coal-fueled power generation technologies. Comparisons of the projected IGFC system efficiency and water consumption are made to pulverized coal-fired and IGCC power plants.