Reducing the manufacturing cost of tubular SOFC technology

Development of a 1-3 MWe class pressurized solid oxide fuel cell/gas turbine combined cycle power system for distributed power applications is under way by Westinghouse Electric Corporation. Cost studies conducted on this market entry product indicate that fully installed costs of under $1300/kWe can be realized in the early commercialization phase for small power systems. Issues relevant to the reduction of cell manufacturing, pressurized solid oxide fuel cell generator manufacturing, balance of plant, and system installation costs are considered. The projected cost of electricity for this technology compares favorably with projected costs for the most advanced small gas turbine system.