In the heart of Italy, researchers are pioneering a system that could redefine how residential buildings power their homes and vehicles, all while slashing dependence on fossil fuels. Giuseppe De Lorenzo, a professor at the University of Calabria, has led a study that explores a poly-generative (PG) system designed to produce electricity, heat, and hydrogen, supporting the green mobility transition.
The system is a clever integration of a Solid Oxide Fuel Cell (SOFC) fed by biomethane, a Photovoltaic (PV) system, and a Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolyser (PEME). But what sets this research apart is the use of electric vehicles (EVs) as dynamic storage units, creating a symbiotic relationship between buildings and vehicles. “This isn’t just about generating energy; it’s about creating a sustainable ecosystem,” De Lorenzo explains.
The study, published in the journal *Energies* (which translates to “Energies” in English), simulates the system’s performance in Rende, Italy, across four seasonal days. The results are promising. The PG system provides a substantial amount of electricity and heat, meeting the building’s electrical demand in summer and hot water demand year-round. Moreover, it produces hydrogen, a clean fuel that can power fuel cell hybrid electric vehicles (EV-FCHEVs).
The commercial implications for the energy sector are significant. As the European Commission pushes for reduced fossil fuel dependence through initiatives like REPowerEU and the “Fit for 55” package, systems like this could become a blueprint for residential buildings. “The integration of EV batteries reduces grid dependence and improves renewable self-consumption,” De Lorenzo notes. This means lower energy bills for consumers and a reduced strain on the national grid.
The continuous and efficient operation of both the SOFC and PEME, facilitated by the EV batteries, demonstrates the potential of the proposed system to support the green transition. This research could shape future developments in the field, encouraging further innovation in poly-generative systems and green mobility solutions.
As the world grapples with climate change and the need for sustainable energy solutions, De Lorenzo’s work offers a glimpse into a future where residential buildings are not just consumers of energy but active participants in a cleaner, greener energy ecosystem. The journey towards this future is complex, but with research like this, it’s also filled with promise.