Advances in Development of Coal-Based Integrated Gasification Fuel Cell Systems Utilizing Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Technology

• Main Authors: Ghezel-Ayagh, Hossein, Way, Richard, Huang, Peng, Walzak, Jim, Jolly, Steven, Patel, Dilip, Willman, Carl, Davis, Keith E., Stauffer, David, Vaysman, Vladimir, Asapu, Sunitha, Borglum, Brian, Tang, Eric, Pastula, Michael, Petri, Randy, Richards, Mark
• Format: Conference Proceeding
• Language: English
• ISSN: 1938-5862; 1938-6737
• DOI: 10.1149/1.3562472

FuelCell Energy is developing solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) systems and technology for very efficient, economically viable, coal-to-electricity power plants utilizing synthesis gas (syngas) from a coal gasifier. In addition to the 500 MW (nominal) size Baseline Power Plant system, a small-scale system (>250 kW) for Proof-of-Concept Module test is being developed. SOFC technology development includes cell performance enhancement, stack building block scale-up, stack tower design and validation tests. Development of a 250 kW module accommodating multiple stack towers is included. The Baseline Power Plant system is designed to remove at least 90% of carbon in the syngas, for sequestration as CO2. The Integrated Gasification Fuel Cell power plant is expected to achieve near-zero emissions to the environment. System optimization to achieve >55% electrical efficiency based on coal higher heating value has been carried out. The SOFC power block layout and factory cost estimate have been generated.