Proposed Testing Methodology and Laboratory Facilitites for Evaluating Residential Fuel Cell Systems.

摘要

Fuel cells are emerging as one of the most promising technologies for meeting the nation's energy needs. Fuel cell efficiencies, approaching 60%, are nearly twice as efficient as conventional power plants. The National Institute of Standards and Technology (NIST) proposes a test method and rating methodology that will capture the overall performance of a residential fuel cell system in the same manner that NIST derived methods of tests exist for heat pump, gas furnaces, water heaters, and other household appliances. The test method will take into account any inefficiencies associated with the fuel cell stack and reformer; the conversion efficiency of the inverter; and any useful water or space heating contributions. The test method will identify and specify environmental and electrical load parameters that may affect performance, as well as the effect of transient loads on the system performance. Finally, rating methodologies will be under representative load and climatic conditions for a specified geographical location.