In a significant leap towards sustainable energy solutions, NAUTILUS and SolydEra proudly announce the successful installation of a groundbreaking 40 kW Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) system at the premises of one of the Finnish power companies in Tampere area.
The system was designed as the first prototype to validate the efficacy of SolydEra stacks within given configurations. In the current arrangement the power density is about 7 kW/m2 and 3kW/m3 which will increase to about 10.5 kW/m2 and 4.5 kW/m3 in the 60kW version. The system is capable to operate in temperature varying between -20°C and +40°C and at any level of air humidity (between 0% and 100%)
Validation of SolydEra Stacks
The installation was completed at the beginning of December 2023 and initial experimental results already proved the effectiveness of SolydEra’s innovative SOFC technology. The tested electrical efficiency is 60% and 84% total efficiency (including heat recovery). In the following steps, real ship energy load profiles in different sailing conditions will be experimentally tested to verify the Genest’s performance. At this stage, SolydEra’s SOFC technology has demonstrated reliability and efficiency, offering a promising solution to address the world’s growing energy needs while minimizing environmental impact.
This prototype serves as the initial testbed to assess the feasibility and practicality of integrating SolydEra SOFC technology in this specific application. The successful implementation of the 40kW system sets the stage for the next ambitious step in the project—a fully operational 60 kW system, which stands as the ultimate goal. The systems (both 40 kW and 60 kW) comprise a distinctive Hot Balance of Plant, a precision-engineered gas train, an efficient air delivery system, cutting-edge power electronics, and a Safety Programmable Logic Controller (PLC), the SOFC systems represent a comprehensive and well-rounded approach to clean energy generation. Prior to its installation in the Tampere area, the system underwent rigorous testing in laboratory conditions, producing excellent results that underscore its potential as a game-changer in the realm of sustainable power solutions. Successfully passing this milestone underlines the commitment of the NAUTILUS project consortium to advance clean energy solutions applicable in the marine business. This successful installation in Finland is one step towards the marinization of Solid Oxide Fuel Cells and their large-scale application on board as a promising low-emission source of power. The project has received funding from the European Union’s Horizon 2020 research and innovation program under grant agreement No 861647.
ABOUT SolydEra:
SolydEra is a key world player in the market of Solid Oxide Cells, Stacks and Solutions, with the largest annual production capacity in Europe. Its Solid Oxide Technology has a proven track record and delivers best in class performance and durability in both fuel cell and electrolysis mode. The company has research & development and industrial manufacturing facilities in Italy, Switzerland and Australia. Its headquarters is in Trentino Alto Adige, Italy.
Visit www.solydera.com
