Hybrid microgrids for remote Indian communities

Each system consists of two fuel cells with a total output power of 1 kW; a solar panel of 5 kW along with a lithium-ion battery bank and energy management module; and an AC supply provided through a hybrid 230 V AC inverter. The end users of the technology are small communities of about 50 people. SFC says its solution helps to ensure adequate lighting, ventilation, mobile phone charging and the running of TVs, as well as other devices.

The fuel cells require less than one litre of fuel per hour. On average, the units are operated for less than six hours per day, unless there is a bad weather spell that prohibits ordinary solar power harvesting. SFC says its solution simplifies logistics and significantly reduces the need to stockpile fuel compared to diesel generators.