Nissan Motor Co has introduced a stationary power system fueled by bio-ethanol, designed for high-efficiency power generation. Trials have commenced at Nissan’s Tochigi Plant in Japan, with the aim of enhancing power generation capacity for full-scale operations by 2030.
In 2016, Nissan became the pioneer automotive company to develop a vehicular propulsion system driven by a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) powered by bio-ethanol. Now, Nissan is leveraging this SOFC expertise to advance stationary power generation systems.
SOFCs can be seamlessly integrated with reformers operating at high temperatures, generating electricity using hydrogen derived from various fuel types, including ethanol, natural gas, and LP gas. The high-temperature operations foster elevated catalytic activity, enabling SOFCs to achieve a remarkable 70% power generation efficiency, surpassing the 60% efficiency of polymer electrolyte fuel cells (PEFCs).
Future advancements involve the development of a metal-supported cell within the SOFC stack to bolster cell strength. This enhancement will facilitate quicker start-up and shutdown times and enable responsive load-following operations, meeting sudden output demand fluctuations. This will ensure efficient SOFC system operation in anticipation of its integration with renewable energy sources.
The procurement of raw sorghum bio-ethanol for the stationary power generation system, developed jointly with Binex Inc., will commence in 2025. Sorghum bio-ethanol emits CO2 during SOFC power generation, but this CO2 is absorbed during the sorghum growth phase, establishing a carbon-neutral cycle.
Characteristics of sorghum include its rapid growth, adaptability to various climates and soils, non-competition with food production, and the utilization of stem waste for biomass power generation.
Kazuhiko Murata, corporate vice president responsible for Powertrain Production Engineering and Development, stated: “Nissan is tackling various technological challenges in response to the shift from internal combustion engines to electric vehicles. SOFC power generation represents one of our strengths. We remain committed to advancing electrification and pursuing carbon neutrality through Nissan’s unique and innovative technologies.”
Nissan aims to achieve carbon neutrality across its operations and product lifecycle by 2050. This includes full electrification of plant equipment by 2050, employing innovative production technologies and reducing energy consumption. To attain carbon neutrality at production plants, all electricity will be sourced from renewable energy or generated onsite using fuel cells utilizing alternative fuels.