Pre-feasibility Study On A Fuel Cell-based District Energy System In Calgary

Abstract

Calgary is an urban hub, and its population is on the rise, with a projected growth of 300,000 residents by the year 2018 (City of Calgary, 2014). This increase in population will also contribute to an increase in energy demand and consumers will continue to rely on energy companies to meet their power needs. Power producers are subsequently faced with the dilemma of providing urban establishments with a reliable source of energy while reducing greenhouse gas (GHG) emissions. District energy (DE) combined heat and power (CHP) systems, also known as cogeneration systems, have proved successful around the world (Berta et. al., 2006; Grigor et.al. 2015; Hite, 2009; Verbruggen et.al., 2013), and recently, Calgary has an increasing amount of district energy generation projects being sought out. This research proposes a solution to this problem and ultimately answers the question: Is a fuel cell based district energy system feasible in Calgary’s urban developments? The research looks at Alberta’s energy and natural gas development, technology of fuel cells and district energy systems, along with environmental and socioeconomic issues. The research methods and data collections utilize previous studies. The research presents many limitations and assumptions, however ultimately leads to a recommendation for further research into this initiative followed by government incentives and subsidies to help lessen the financial burden that a fuel cell based DE system poses.