Modelling and simulation of H2-blended NG powered SOFC for heat and power generation applications

This study presents a detailed modelling and simulation of a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) system powered by hydrogen (H₂) blended with natural gas (NG). The model, validated with experimental data from pure NG operation, predicts system performance with an average error of 1.46 %. Simulations were conducted for two cases of hydrogen blending: before and after the reformer. A 5 % by volume H₂ blend before the reformer increases power generation by 0.9 – 1 % and thermal output by 0.15 %, while post-reformer blending results in a 1.5 – 3 % increase in power generation and a 1.4 % rise in thermal output along with reduced CO 2 emission. The study includes a techno-economic analysis examining the feasibility of blending hydrogen with natural gas in SOFC systems. This analysis assesses both blending strategies' cost implications and potential benefits, providing insights into the economic viability of integrating hydrogen into natural gas for SOFC use. According to the simulation results, to align the energy cost of an SOFC system using pure NG, the hydrogen price should be 0.096 USD/kg. With the SOFC system costing 6015 USD for a 1.5 kW setup, the price of NG per kg ranges from 0.14 to 1.20 USD, resulting in electricity costs between 0.11 and 0.36 USD per kWh. Given the anticipated NG market price in 2024 of 0.89 USD/kg, the estimated power cost is 0.37 USD per kWh, which remains higher than the electricity cost from a diesel generator. In conclusion, this work highlights the potential of H₂ blending to improve SOFC performance and provides a framework for further research in sustainable energy technologies. • The study investigates the effect of H 2 blending on SOFC performance and economics • A novel framework for modelling and simulation of SOFC systems in Modelica is developed • The model is validated with experimental data and shows good agreement • The optimal H 2 blending ratio for different SOFC operating conditions is determined • The study demonstrates the potential of SOFC-CHP systems for various applications