Sophia energy storage project

What is the Sophia Project?

These aspects are covered by the SOPHIA project. A 3 kWe-size pressurized HTE system, coupled to a concentrated solar energy source will be designed, fabricated and operated on-sun for proof of principle. Second, it will prove the concept of co-electrolysis at the stack level while operated also pressurized.

What are the goals of Sophia?

Key targets of the SOPHIA project and expected outcomes are the development of cells (including large scale) and stacks which work under pressurized conditions, meet long durability (< 1% per 1000 h) and high performance (> 1 A/ cm2).

Where can Sophia Systems be deployed?

Large scale SOPHIA like systems can be deployed in Southern Europe as the market analyses have shown. Deployment of stand-alone SOEC systems can be worldwide. EPFL is an important institute for education, training and PhD students in the field of system modelling, solar receiver modelling and fuel cell and electrolyser research.

Is there a potential market for Sophia technology?

A large potential market exists for the SOPHIA technology with production capacities. In 2010 the European Commission has adopted the Communication "Energy 2020 - A strategy for competitive, sustainable and secure energy". It includes five headline targets that set out where the EU should be in 2020.

Can Sophia cells be operated at high current density?

In addition, the contact elements and sealing concept have been optimized for SOPHIA cells and validated in several 1-cell stacks. It was shown that at atmospheric pressure, the cell and stack can be operated at high current density (ΔiΔ≥0.6 A/cm²) even at 700°C, which might help in ageing resistance.

Does Sophia plant need to increase its production?

In case SOPHIA plant need to increase its production (during the night for example) electricity market was investigated and we found that electricity average annual market price was 34.6€/MWh in 2014 For France and prospective prices were estimated by 2030.