Rostec's United Engine Corporation is developing a line of power plants based on solid oxide fuel cells with a capacity of 2.5 kW and 20 kW. This was reported to “Pervy Tekhnichesky” by the ODK press service.
The units can be used for power supply to remote settlements, data centers, and housing and communal services facilities.
The unit generates electricity by converting the chemical energy of fuel directly into electricity and heat. The main “outputs” are water and carbon dioxide. Emissions of harmful substances, such as carbon monoxide and nitrogen oxides, are significantly lower than those of traditional units. Efficiency exceeds 50%.
Today, ODK specialists have developed and are testing a 2.5 kW power plant in laboratory conditions. In early 2027, it is planned to complete the development of the 20 kW version and begin pilot industrial tests in conditions close to real ones.
Where it will be applied
The units can provide energy to residential areas, hospitals, schools, data centers, and housing and communal services facilities. The presence of cogeneration — the simultaneous generation of electricity and hot water — will accelerate payback at facilities with round-the-clock load.
The modular principle allows increasing power by using several units. Thanks to the utilization of associated gas, fields will be able to convert it into electricity for their own needs. Autonomous facilities, such as gas distribution points, will be able to operate on liquefied natural gas, propane, and associated petroleum gas.
The inter-service period of the unit is more than 8000 hours, and the service life is 30 years.