Proposals should address the following at the system level:

• A rSOC system capable of generating at least 5 kWe in fuel cell mode and capable of absorbing at least 15 kWe in electrolysis mode needs to be developed, in line with the KPIs mentioned in the expected outcomes;
• The concepts used in developing the system should allow scalability to higher powers not only by adding individual stacks but also by increasing the stack power;
• The system should be able to operate not only with 100% hydrogen as fuel but also with mixtures of hydrogen and natural gas in Fuel Cell mode. In Electrolysis mode the system should be able to operate either in steam electrolysis or co-electrolysis mode, depending on the best possible approach leading to compatibility with the gas grid; etc. (further details in the Funding&Tenders page)

Proposals should address the following at cell & stack level:

• On the cell level, either commercially available cells may be used, or electro-catalytic materials can be specifically engineered keeping reversible operation in mind. The cells should perform up to the current standards or higher and should meet the KPIs given above. The same should be replicated on the short stack and full stack levels. The cell should be able to operate at a current density of at least 1.5 A/cm2 or higher in both modes of operation. Transient time during switching between modes should be quantified and kept low for practical operations;
• Appropriate State of health monitoring methods and monitoring tools should be developed and implemented which can predict performance degradation when cell is operated the two modes EL (with steam electrolysis and/or co-electrolysis) and FC (with several combinations of feeding mixtures).

Proposals should also demonstrate how the solution developed would allow to create a synergy between the gas transmission system operator and electric transmission system operator. In addition proposals should develop and propose early business models targeting at energy companies including gas and power utilities.