Methanol to power through high-efficiency hybrid fuel cell system: Thermodynamic, thermo-economic, and techno-economic (3T) analyses in Northwest China

摘要: Abstract Advanced efficient energy conversion technology using clean alternative fuel contributes to the alleviation of crisis and environmental deterioration. In this situation, a novel methanol utilization for power generation based on hybrid cell system is proposed in work. The consists solid oxide (SOFC), gas processing unit (GP) proton exchange membrane (PEMFC). Thermodynamic analysis shows that efficiency exergy are both higher than previously reported standalone or systems as fuel, which 66.2% 54.2% respectively. Besides, no recirculation ratio anode off-gas moderate about 0.5 suggested SOFC component balance distribution improve efficiency. Afterwards, also investigated from thermo-economic techno-economic perspectives. Take Northwest China case, 1 MWe methanol-fed plant has specific electric cost 0.5594 CNY/kWh, much lower steam reforming-PEMFC (2.4 CNY/kWh). At same time, sensitivity analyses reveal not sensitive market price fluctuation. With financial subsidies existing renewable plants, payback period can be shortened 1.4 year annual return investment 3.58%. These results two-stage kind economically technology, especially small scale.