Fuel cell technology for distributed generation: An overview

Fuel cell technology for distributed generation (DG) is attracting more and more attention due to its high efficiency and unique environmentally friendly features. In this paper, the system characteristics, state-of-the-art, prospective markets and applications of different fuel cells are discussed. The operational principles of these fuel cell systems are also presented and their distinct characteristics are summarized. As a new technology for DG, this paper focuses more attention on the DG application aspect of fuel cells. Comparison of different type of fuel cells in the framework of DG is also made. Furthermore, the power conditioning and control techniques for fuel cell based DG are also reviewed. Finally, future prospects of fuel cell based DG are predicted.