Fuel Cell – Ultra Capacitor Hybrid System for Grid Connected Applications

Fuel cells are considered as one of the most promising devices for standalone/grid connected distributed generations due to its cleanliness, modularity and higher potential capability. In the present energy scenario, Fuel cells combined with other renewable technologies are gaining attraction. This paper focuses on the combination of Fuel Cell (FC) and Ultra-Capacitor (UC) systems for sustained power generation. Model of Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) Fuel Cell have been developed in the MATLAB/Simulink Environment. To supply the required hydrogen moles, Electrolyzer model was developed. Hydrogen storage tank was modeled such that the generated moles of hydrogen from the electrolyzer are stored in the storage tank and the fuel cell receives the required amount of hydrogen moles from the storage tank rather than the electrolyzer. The combined system was synchronized to the grid and when the load demand exceeds the capacity of the fuel cell system, then the additional power is supplied by the grid thus ensuring continuity of supply to the load.