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Economic Case for Replacing High-Emitting Peaker Plants with Fuel Cells for Automotive Applications

Journal Article · · ACS Omega
 [1];  [1]
  1. Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), Berkeley, CA (United States)
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The identification of clean and cost-effective solutions to replace high-emitting peaker plants and support a just transition is a challenge faced by utilities across the US today. However, falling costs of hydrogen production as well as the widespread availability of fuel cells for automotive applications have made them an attractive option for a zero-emission peak power supply. This study evaluates the techno-economics, operation, and environmental justice impacts of siting a peaker plant based on fuel cells for automotive applications through the lens of the existing Intermountain Power Plant, in order to supply peak power to the Los Angeles basin. Compared to the fossil fuel-fired peakers in operation today, the fuel cell peaker would be lower-cost up to a 17% capacity factor with Inflation Reduction Act incentives while also reducing air pollution in environmental justice communities. With corresponding transmission upgrades, the Intermountain site could host up to a 5 GW fuel cell peaker in the future.
Research Organization:
Lawrence Berkeley National Laboratory (LBNL), Berkeley, CA (United States)
Sponsoring Organization:
USDOE
Grant/Contract Number:
AC02-05CH11231
OSTI ID:
2470739
Journal Information:
ACS Omega, Journal Name: ACS Omega Journal Issue: 34 Vol. 9; ISSN 2470-1343
Publisher:
American Chemical Society (ACS)Copyright Statement
Country of Publication:
United States
Language:
English

References (7)

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Private and External Costs and Benefits of Replacing High-Emitting Peaker Plants with Batteries journal March 2023
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journal June 2020
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Related Subjects

37 INORGANIC, ORGANIC, PHYSICAL, AND ANALYTICAL CHEMISTRY
Fuel cells
Hydrogen
Natural resources
Power
Redox reactions