Construction of a 30kW SOFC Gas Turbine Hybrid Power Plant

Hybrid power plants consisting of a gas turbine coupled with solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) convert chemically bound energy into electrical energy. They can be operated at higher electrical efficiencies than conventional power plants. Theoretical studies suggest electrical efficiencies of up to 70 %. The German Aerospace Center (DLR) aims to build and operate a hybrid power plant with an electrical power output of 30 kW. The system concept and design of the power plant have been finalized and the specification of all major system components has been carried out. Currently, different system components are being purchased and tested. The presentation gives an overview of the current status of the project and illustrates the general concept of the power plant. All major components of the power plant are described. Important specifications and characteristics of the components are presented. Results of component tests are presented where available and the expected operating range is specified.