CHAPTER 12:Application of SOFCs in Combined Heat, Cooling and Power Systems

The unique and beneficial characteristics of SOFC technology, coupled with emerging energy production and supply paradigms related to distributed generation, hold much promise for their eventual widespread adoption in numerous residential and commercial building applications. This chapter focuses on the application of SOFC technology in both CHP and CCHP systems for residential and commercial buildings. In particular, modelling approaches, integration strategies, and benefits and challenges for SOFC‐based CHP/CCHP systems are presented. The chapter is organized such that a brief introduction to building application characteristics and integration considerations is first presented. An overview of SOFC‐based CCHP system configurations and operation is then discussed. Considering the lack of SOFC‐CCHP systems either commercially available or in demonstration, the presentation has a predominate focus on SOFC‐CHP systems at relatively small scales (< 10 kW). Basic modelling approaches and techniques for system design and simulation are given next, followed by a synthesis of results and observations concerning the expected effectiveness of SOFC‐CHP systems in residential and commercial building markets. The chapter concludes with an overview of SOFC commercialization efforts, technology and economic barriers, and market outlook.