Springboard applications for small cogeneration plants based on Solid Oxide Fuel Cells

Biowaste embeds an extraordinary renewable potential and it becomes a source of energy savings when transformed into a valuable resource, like biogas. Cogeneration (CHP) based on biogas by means of high temperature Solid Oxide Fuel Cells (SOFCs) scores a high sustainability level, thanks to improved environmental and energy performances. The synergy between the niche market of small/micro biogas producers and SOFCs might act as springboard to open market opportunities for both SOFC commercialization and for the business upgrade of small farms. However, local regulations, waste management, renewable energy subsidies and, above all, availability of eligible sites, determine the concrete chances for the real application. Through a detailed analysis of the application scenario, this research aims at investigating opportunities for the experimentation of SOFC-CHP in small biogas plants and identifying the possible bottlenecks for the future deployment.