Batteries, fuel cells and electrolysis: Applications

This lecture discusses the applications of batteries, fuel cells, and electrolysis in various sectors such as portable electronics, small cogeneration, transport vehicles, medium cogeneration, and more. It covers the performance, efficiency, and physical characteristics of different fuel cell technologies, including SOFC and PEFC. The lecture also presents real-world examples like the Bloom Energy Box and the Siemens MAN City Bus, highlighting their power output, efficiency, and emissions. Challenges related to cost targets, lifetime requirements, and reliability of fuel cell systems are addressed. Additionally, the lecture explores the strengths of fuel cells, such as high electrical efficiency, low emissions, modularity, and multi-fuel capabilities. The importance of full cycle energy efficiency and the overall efficiency of different energy conversion processes are also discussed.