The Past, Present, and Future of Phosphoric Acid Fuel Cells Operating on Anaerobic Digester Gas

ABSTRACT

With high efficiency, virtually zero emissions, and 24/7 generation capability, fuel cells represent the cleanest means of generating continuous on-site electrical power of any available technology. When fueled by the waste gases (anaerobic digester gas, ADG) from anaerobic digestion-based wastewater treatment facilities, stationary fuel cells can turn an emissions liability into a revenue-generating asset, while significantly reducing emissions of both air pollutants and greenhouse gases. ADG fuel cell applications often qualify for sizeable government incentive programs given the widespread acceptance of ADG as a renewable fuel. The PureCell™ fuel cell power system from UTC Power has accumulated more than 400,000 hours of operation on ADG at 22 installations worldwide. This article will describe the capabilities of the PureCell system operating on both natural gas and ADG, as well as the experience gained from UTC Power's fleet. Current and future product offerings will be presented with specific emphasis on opportunities for ADG applications.