Numerical modelling of a solid oxide fuel cell from experimental data and energy analysis of its potential application in a residential building under different climatic conditions

Solid oxide fuel cells could play important role in achieving the goal of positive homes when pure hydrogen will be distributed from centralized production sites. Thus, it is important for research community focusing on reliable data about their operation. The paper contributes to this topic by validating a new numerical model through monitored data on 1 kWh el system. Then, a primary energy analysis is proposed for a case study considering different supply scenarios, the installation of photovoltaic system and the application of refurbishment interventions. New indices are also introduced for quantifying the mismatch between self-consumption and production by renewable sources. In the scenario with low building performance and photovoltaic system of 9.2 kW, the self-consumption varies between 40 % (Continental climate) and 63 % (Mediterranean climate); the surplus electricity is always higher than 40 % and the positive standard is achieved. Adoption of green hydrogen and refurbishment actions maximizes the on-site consumption, reducing the primary energy demand of more than 90 %; meanwhile an oversized photovoltaic system causes balance problems with more than 50 % of exported electricity. More in general, the results give indications to researchers for designs that minimize the power grid interaction of future buildings and underline the importance of storage systems. • Photovoltaic-hydrogen hybrid system enhances Zero Energy into positive Building. • Numerical model based operational map is validated with 1200 experimental points. • The load cover factor varies among 72 % and 78 % for climate classes Dfb and Csa. • The exported renewable rate is 58 % in climatic zone Dfb and 71 % in Bwh zone. • Use of off-site hydrogen is suitable for residential refurbished existing building.