A Multi-Energy Fuel Cell Model in the Extended Node Method

Abstract:
The coupling of the three energy grids electric power, gas and heat, via sector coupling devices such as fuel cells or electrolyzers enables the increase of the share of renewable energies in consumption beyond the electricity sector. Correct modeling is crucial for the physically correct description of the behavior of fuel cells and effects on the energy grids, especially regarding transients caused by switching processes or during plant faults. In the paper presented here, the proton exchange membrane fuel cell is introduced as a component for its use in the “Extended Node Method”. It allows a suitable integration into the grid-based energy systems electricity, gas and heat based on node equations. For this purpose, the fuel cell is described as a multi-energy component. Also, for gas and heating grids, electrical analogies are used. The associated systems of equations are constructed in such a way that they can be applied to different topologies. Exemplary operating points are shown for a sample configuration. The results are partly compared with other calculation methods and software and discussed.