Distributed Power Generation
If you have an interest in learning about power generation solutions and/or back-up power solutions for municipal, county, government, academic or commercial facilities, then plan to attend FuelCellSouth 2008.
250-kilowatt MCFC power plant: Photo Courtesy of Fuel Cell Energy
Distributed generation is a concept where smaller, highly efficient power plants are installed along the existing grid, close to the end-user customer.
Why is Distributed Power Generation Occuring?
There are localized shortages of electricity in this country, particularly in California and the Northeast. The ability to quickly build power plants to provide needed power is attractive.
It is getting increasingly difficult to site new power plants near population centers due to air quality concerns.
Deregulation is opening up new markets and new players on those markets, all of whom are looking for tools that will make them as competitive as possible.
National Security
Distributed Generation in the Southeast?
Electricity in the Southeast is relatively inexpensive, but recognized as being less clean then alternative energy sources. Distributed Fuel Cells are one potential source for clean power, but not cost competitive today with fossil fuel plants.
Today, renewable energy implementations are relatively few in the Southeast, but do exist… utilizing landfills and reciprocating engines… participating in the Green Power Program
e.g. Santee Cooper - Horry County, South Carolina Landfill
We need more reliable power alternatives for business and mission critical environments. Power security and inclement weather (ice, wind, thunder & lightning, etc.) present economic and security threats to our region.
The Southeast has many feed stocks for biomass and large-scale wastewater management facilities upon which to leverage for green power. These environments present opportunities for research, demonstration, public awareness and ultimately lower cost implementations.
Distributed Generation Scenarios
End-User
Remote Generation (on or off grid)
Export to System Side (sell the excess power back to the utility)
Backup Generation (replacement of diesel generators)
System Side
Energy and Capacity (e.g. green power program)
Ancillary Services (in support of distributed generation)
Local Reliability Generation Services (in mission critical areas, e.g. hospitals).
FuelCellSouth 2008 Attendees from eleven southeastern states will converge on Greenville, South Carolina for 3 days of presentations, exhibits, and collaboration featuring leaders in the hydrogen and fuel cell industry…
Lift Truck Forum - April 29thThis year, FuelCellSouth will feature presentations on fuel cell powered electric lift and pallet trucks at its annual conference in Greenville, SC. Attendees will hear information from equipment suppliers, distributors and operators about their “hands-on” experience with fuel cell powered material handling equipment in actual industrial and warehouse operations…
Crystal Flame AwardsYou won't want to miss the 2008 FuelCellSouth Crystal Flame Innovation Awards - recognizing innovation and excellence in Entrepreneurship, Research and Industry in the Southeastern United States…
For general information on FCS.
Southeastern Hydrogen HighwayWe are pleased and proud to Launch the Southeastern Hydrogen Highway - SEH2way…
