In sectors such as telecommunications, environmental monitoring and critical infrastructure, power sources traditionally rely often on diesel generators due to their accessibility and established technology. However, the environmental and logistical challenges – such as emissions, noise and high maintenance – have led to a search for alternatives that can still withstand harsh conditions while minimising environmental impact.

The unique challenges and opportunities presented by off-grid sites necessitate a diverse range of power options. One promising option has emerged from the recently concluded RoRePower project, coordinated by VTT, which evaluated the use of solid oxide fuel cells (SOFCs, in which a solid oxide acts as the electrolyte) to power off-grid sites in challenging environments.

This four-year initiative, supported by the EU Fuel Cell and Hydrogen Joint Undertaking under Horizon 2020, involved testing over 50 SOFC installations worldwide. The results indicate that fuel cells can meet many of the demanding needs of remote power generation while providing a clean and flexible solution.

An advantage of SOFC technology is its compatibility with various fuels. The project specifically examined the use of biofuels, natural gas, propane and LPG to power SOFC systems. This adaptability provides logistical advantages, allowing operators to choose the most accessible and cost-effective fuel for each location.

For example, in areas with natural gas infrastructure, fuel cells can tap into this existing resource. In more isolated regions, propane may be a better choice. This flexibility makes SOFCs versatile and capable of fitting into different operational contexts, from telecommunications towers in the deserts to weather stations in the Arctic.

Cost, efficiency and noise benefits
The findings indicate that fuel cells can reliably operate in temperatures ranging from –40°C to +50°C, showcasing their durability. This is particularly important for industries that depend on uninterrupted power in locations where weather can be highly variable.

Fuel cells are also known for their low noise emissions, which can benefit installations in areas where noise pollution might disrupt local wildlife or communities. One of the main environmental benefits highlighted by the RoRePower study is the improved energy efficiency of fuel cells. Compared to conventional thermoelectric generators, fuel cells can reduce primary energy use by 80%, and, compared to diesel engines, they can achieve around a 40% reduction.

Another critical factor for adopting fuel cells in remote sites is the potential to reduce total ownership costs over the long term. In remote and off-grid applications, logistical costs, including fuel transportation and system maintenance, are often significant contributors to expenses. Fuel cells, particularly those using SOFC technology, offer a relatively low-maintenance solution that can operate for extended periods without intervention.

The ability to monitor fuel cells remotely also helps minimise operating costs. By enabling remote monitoring, fuel cells can provide real-time updates on performance and fuel levels, allowing operators to address any potential issues before they impact the power supply. Remote monitoring also makes it easier to incorporate renewable sources such as solar power into the energy mix, which can help reduce fuel usage and costs even more. The ability to integrate with solar power also makes fuel cells an attractive hybrid solution, particularly in regions with abundant sunlight.

Compared to conventional thermoelectric generators, fuel cells can reduce primary energy use by 80%, and, compared to diesel engines, they can achieve around a 40% reduction.

Success at multiple sites
One of the most promising outcomes of the project is the successful demonstration of fuel cell systems at multiple test sites. The SOFC units installed across different locations worldwide demonstrated reliable operation and provided valuable data on durability, fuel efficiency and cost-effectiveness. Based on this data, the project partners, including European-based SOFC manufacturers Sunfire, SolydEra and New Enerday, are now better positioned to scale production and reduce costs through mass manufacturing.

While SOFC technology shows great promise, particularly in reducing emissions and enhancing operational efficiency, the current capital cost for fuel cell systems remains higher than some conventional options. However, the project’s success has paved the way for increased production capabilities, which is expected to bring down costs over time.

Fuel cells, with their fuel flexibility, minimal emissions and low maintenance requirements, are a strong candidate for meeting environmental, performance and budget demands. SOFC technology has the potential to become a cornerstone of off-grid power generation in diverse and challenging environments.

Remote power futures
The future of remote power is green. Diesel power will continue to play a significant role in off-grid applications due to its proven reliability and affordability. Nevertheless, fuel cell technology is rapidly maturing and presents a viable option for many scenarios. As the world becomes increasingly interconnected and climate change continues to pose significant threats, the need for sustainable energy solutions in remote areas is more urgent than ever.

While the journey from prototype to commercial viability is still ongoing, fuel cells offer an adaptable and sustainable solution for the future of remote power.

The views and opinions expressed in this article are strictly those of the author only and are not necessarily given or endorsed by or on behalf of the Energy Institute.

• Further reading: ‘Now is the time to build more off-grid energy systems’. Europe lags behind the US when it comes to the adoption of off-grid generation schemes, which typically connect to a local microgrid or direct to the consumer and can be built at lower costs than large power stations, writes off-grid advisor Nick Rosen.
• Affordable, reliable and clean energy is essential to sustainable human development. Ensuring everyone has energy access by 2030 is the seventh United Nations Sustainable Development Goal (SDG 7). However, some 685 million people had no electricity and 2.1 billion had no clean cooking fuel in 2022. Connecting this considerable demographic to renewable energy that won’t harm their health or the environment is a major challenge.