Key performance assessment of fuel cell based distributed energy generation system in resilient micro energy grid

Distributed energy generation (DG) in micro energy grid (MEG) is anticipated to subjugate the shortcomings in current energy supply. Proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) has been serving well in the automotive application and holds promises as a potential distributed generation technology. However, before qualifying as a potential technology, it must ensure high reliability, efficient utilization of recourses, and subjugate environmental impacts. The paper discusses the dynamic behavior of both standalone and grid connected closed loop controlled PEMFC distributed generation system. Moreover, based on the dynamic response, the key performance indicators (power quality, load response, efficiency etc.) have been evaluated. The results indicate that PEMFC can provide high quality power with acceptable THD and can cope with the rapid load change in the network. Besides, during heavily loaded grid connected condition, it can provide sufficient amount of real and reactive power to maintain the grid power quality. Finally, we have evaluated economic and environmental indicators for systems with fuel cell based power generation and fuel cell based micro-CHP. However, economy analysis of the system depicts that using PEMFC for only electricity generation does not qualify for efficient resource utilization. Thus, the paper suggests the use of fuel cell based CHP to ensure maximum utilization of natural resources while increase the system efficiency up to 90%.