ZeroGen II – Technologies for Large Scale Zero Emission Power Plants

There are three main routes to CO₂ capture from combustion processes; post-combustion, oxy-fuel combustion and pre-combustion. Common for all these routes are additional power consuming and cost increasing steps compared to conventional power plants. In this hybrid concept (the ZEG-technology), co-production of hydrogen and electricity with integrated high temperature CO₂ capture is facilitated by using the waste heat from a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) for sorption-enhanced steam methane reforming (SE-S MR) of natural gas.

Contrary to other known zero emission processes, the ZEG-technology does not include additional power consuming steps for CO₂ capture. One of the main features of the ZEG-technology is that the CO₂ capture eliminates the need for an afterburner. This reduces the investment costs, reduces the fuel consumption and increases the efficiency. Another main feature is that the produced hydrogen is fed through the fuel cell stacks, improving the fuel quality. This increases the power density i n the stacks, and reduces the investment cost of the fuel cell system. The ZEG concept has a potential for a very high efficiency, and previous system studies have shown overall net efficiencies exceeding 90%. In order to achieve these high efficiencies, a very good thermal integration is required.

The work proposed is based on the very promising techno-economic feasibility study performed within the recently completed ZeroGen project, and includes the identified activities required to reduce the technical and economical risk, reduce CAPEX costs and optimize the system. The work will include complementary system studies, cost analyses, technical design improvements as well as economical and technical risk reductions. The results will be used by ZEG Power AS to establish a roadmap for the R&D activities as well as to strengthen the marketing and business plan.