The United Engine Corporation, part of Rostec, has started laboratory testing of a solid oxide fuel cell power system. The experimental unit generates 2.5 kW of power and converts chemical energy from fuel directly into electricity and heat. The system achieves an efficiency rate exceeding 50%.
The technology utilizes oxygen as an oxidizer and can operate on liquefied natural gas, propane, or associated petroleum gas. The process relies on a solid ceramic electrolyte that conducts oxygen ions at high temperatures. The reaction produces water and carbon dioxide as byproducts.
The company plans to develop a more powerful 20 kW system by early 2027. Following this, the corporation intends to conduct pilot industrial tests in real-world conditions. The design will eventually be adapted to meet specific requirements from potential clients.
The corporation identifies the housing and utilities sector, as well as urban infrastructure management, as primary target markets. These systems are intended for local and autonomous power supply in areas with access to gas fuel. Currently, there are no industrial-grade domestic units of this type in Russia.
