Potential of a Honda Fuel Cell Module Developed for Mobility Applications in Stationary CHP Configuration

For the first time this study presents the results of a test bench evaluation of a 78kW$_{el}$ Honda fuel cell module, originally designed for mobile applications, in a stationary combined heat and power (CHP) configuration. The module's performance was assessed at various return temperatures (40, 50, and, 60°C) and power setpoints. Notably, the results show very efficient operation across the temperatures and power setpoints with nearly no hydrogen being emitted via the exhaust gas. The module achieved thermal and electrical efficiencies of over 54% and 50%, respectively, with a total efficiency of up to 97.1%. Furthermore, the hydrogen content in the exhaust gas was analyzed and the results show almost no hydrogen in the stream. These findings suggest that the Honda fuel cell module has significant potential as a highly efficient stationary power source, offering improved performance compared to commercially available hydrogen engine CHP systems, e.g. hydrogen internal combustion engines.