Integration of SOFC/GT hybrid systems in Micro-Grids

SOFC/GT hybrid systems (HS) thanks to their high performance, in term of efficiency, emissions and fuel flexibility can represent a remarkable solution for Micro-Grids power range. In particular, due to the synergistic effect of using a high temperature fuel cell such as Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) and a recuperative gas turbine (GT), the integrated system efficiency and flexibility can be significantly increased during load following operation. Specifically, the goal of this paper is to demonstrate the enhanced flexibility of the hybrid plant obtained through the development of a suitable main control strategy to regulate both GT and SOFC, following a daily load demand typical of a Micro-Grid. In particular, in the model, thanks to the implemented thermal SOFC management, also SOFC takes part to the partialization process. In this way, the developed model permits to guarantee high HS efficiency performance (54.5% mean efficiency on daily basis), short time response and a wide part-load degree (up to 42.8% of nominal HS power), proving the feasibility of SOFC/GT hybrid system integration in Micro-Grids. (C) 2016 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.