Implementation of Solar Cells and Natural Gas Fuel Cells as a Green Hybrid Power Plant

Authors

  • Abolfazl Halvaei Niasar Faculty of Electrical & Computer Engineering, University of Kashan
  • Robert Vartanian Texas A&M University, College Station
  • Hassan Moghbelli Texas A&M University, P.O. Box 23874, Qatar Foundation, Doha, Qatar,

Keywords:

Hybrid power plant, solar cell, fuel cell, natural gas.

Abstract

Global warming is a major concern in today’s world. To address this issue, most countries are working on the usage of renewable energy sources like solar energy, clean fuels (hydrogen) and trying to increase the efficiency of fossil fuel plants. This paper discusses the hybridization of the renewable solar energy source with highly efficient and clean usage of natural gas fossil fuel. The hybrid power plant used in this project uses renewable energy sources as a reliable power supply with stand-alone and grid-connected capability which can increase network power quality. Simulation results have been discussed to show the contribution of natural gas fuel cells, photovoltaic power plants, and electric energy storage in supplying a constant load.

 

Keywords: Hybrid power plant, solar cell, fuel cell, natural gas.

Published

2013-03-21

Issue

Section

Research Article