Performance Evaluation of a Hybrid SOFC-ICE Power System for Ships

The shipping industry is facing pressure to reduce its environmental impact, and solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC)-internal combustion engine (ICE) hybrid power systems are being considered as a potential solution. This study focuses on the feasibility of implementing an SOFC-ICE hybrid power system on a tanker traveling the China to east Africa route. The study evaluates the efficiency, carbon dioxide emissions, and fuel consumption of the hybrid system under three different power distribution modes (30-70, 50-50, and 7030) and various installed power levels. The results indicate that the optimal power distribution ratio for the tanker is 70-30, with the SOFC operating at partial load. This power distribution mode leads to the highest system efficiency of 51% and a reduction of nearly 31% in carbon emissions compared to a 100% internal combustion engine system. Additionally, for the specific case study tanker, the 70-30 installed power distribution with the SOFC operating at partial load results in the lowest fuel consumption and carbon emissions, as well as the highest system efficiency. The study highlights the potential benefits of implementing an SOFC-ICE hybrid power system for reducing the environmental impact of the shipping industry.