Stationary systems — Decentralised energy production

The need for decentralised electrical and thermal energy is even greater at isolated sites, through the distance from the distribution networks or the limitations of networks to respond to variations in consumption. Hydrogen production by autonomous means (coupled with renewable energies or reforming) provides a clean, reliable and economic answer.

EnR COUPLING AND ENERGY STORAGE

The use of intermittent renewable energy (EnR) resources (such as wind or solar power) is rapidly growing for the production of energy on isolated sites or as an addition to the local electricity distribution network. However, due to the intermittent nature of EnR, systems based on renewable energies must be hybridized with a storage capacity and a readily available energy production source.

Hydrogen can be produced from the electrolysis of water and stored at times when the electricity production from renewable sources is in excess. It can then be re-used by a fuel cell to produce energy when the source of renewable energy becomes insufficient.

ELECTRICAL AND THERMAL GENERATION

Going beyond the electricity needs of isolated sites, there is often a need to have a source of heat for heating and this can be an important factor in local development.

Fuel cells permit the generation of both electrical and thermal energy simultaneously. Linked with an autonomous fuel reforming system, such promising solutions can make heat and electricity available on isolated sites.