The Prometheus-5 product proposes an alternative solution for power and heat generation, using hydrogen and fuel cells. Currently, the targeting market segment (remote or back-up power generation) is served by diesel or gasoline generators which rely on mature and relatively low cost technology. However, conventional gensets offer about half of the electrical efficiency (normally around 16%, in this power range), and present other significant drawbacks such as: high operational and maintenance costs, emission of large quantities of greenhouse gases (CO2, HCs) and atmospheric pollutants (SOx, NOx, CO, particulates), vibration and noise. Commercialization of Helbio’s system will result in power generators having electrical efficiency twice that of the conventional ones, leading to proportionally reduced fuel consumption, proportionally reduced GHG emissions and near elimination of emission of atmospheric pollutants. Also, the use of alternative to gasoline and diesel fuels, like propane/LPG, NG and, especially, biogas, a renewable fuel, will be introduced in the power generation market. The proposed system is based on highly innovative and efficient technologies, which have been developed in recent years by Helbio S.A. These technologies address major EU and global challenges, dealing with both environmental and energy efficiency issues and they are in accordance with the Roadmap for moving toward a low-carbon economy in 2050 (low-cost and low-carbon energy production, use of alternative fuels, emissions reduction, etc).
Primary objective of the proposed project is the industrialization of a highly innovative, energy efficient and environmentally friendly power production unit for decentralized power generation (Prometheus-5). The unit is of nominal capacity of 5 kW electric power, while in the combined heat and power (CHP) mode, it can also produce up to 7 kW thermal energy in the form of hot water. The unit is a multi-fuel one and it can be operated with conventional fossil fuels (propane/LPG and Natural gas (NG)) or Biogas (BG). The device is able to convert the fuel into electrical and thermal power by means of a fuel processor which converts the fuel and water into hydrogen and a Proton Exchange Membrane (PEM) fuel cell. The unit is equipped with a power management system, delivering electrical energy in the form required (DC or AC, grid connected or stand alone), depending on application. It has the ability to operate in the range of 40-100% of its nominal capacity. Its electrical efficiency is greater than 35% (based on LHV), while total efficiency exceeds 85%. The integrated system consists of the following sub-units:
- Fuel processor/hydrogen production unit
- Power production unit (fuel cell stack + power electronics)
- Control module
