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By using the optimization software tool HOMER, this project aims at the energetic and economical optimization of a RES-based stand-alone system, already installed at Leicestershire, UK. Based on local meteorological data, an optimization strategy has been developed to identify the most economical and efficient scenarios for the generation of electricity to cover the desirable load in annual basis. Furthermore, the environmental-friendly character of the system was highly concerned in terms of emissions reduction, therefore the capability of an off-grid system was also investigated. The simulations show that an off-grid project with zero emissions is feasible, presenting the additional advantage of minimal capital investment costs. Finally, it is found that grid connection corresponds to very high operational costs in a long term.

In this paper the integrated process of biomass gasification and a solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) was studied in terms of thermodynamics. The study is based on an ongoing project intending to develop an innovative sustainable technology with high efficiency. According to some assumptions, the energy balance revealed that the process can be auto-thermal. Furthermore, and due to the utilization of the hydrogen content of steam utilized in the reforming stage, the overall efficiencies to electrical power could reach very high levels.

Based on a thermodynamic and economic analysis presented in the first part of this paper, ethanol is considered as an alternative fuel with suitable characteristics for electricity generation in SOFCs. Ethanol fed steam reformer-SOFC systems attain high theoretical efficiencies in the range of 83.7–93.4% operating at carbon-free conditions between 800 and 1200 K . These efficiencies classify ethanol as the second most valuable fuel option for SOFCs after natural gas, higher than important other fuel candidates such as gasoline and methanol. A discussion is made upon the benefits obtainable from the utilization of ethanol for generation of electricity in SOFCs and a complete “ethanol scenario” is proposed as a competitive energy policy and a step forward to the target of sustainable development. The analysis reveals the cost relations between each fuel scenario and focuses upon the measures required so as the “ethanol scenario” to break through the threshold of economic viability.