JP4775790B2 - A power generation system that effectively uses natural energy, - Google Patents

Description

  The present invention relates to an independent power generation system that can efficiently and stably use electric power based on natural energy. More specifically, the present invention relates to an independent power generation system that can store natural energy as electric power and hydrogen of a storage battery, can supply electric power with high efficiency and stability, and can be used particularly suitably in cold and cold regions such as Hokkaido.

  A power generation system using natural energy is already known. This system uses natural energy such as sunlight and wind power, so it is clean and economical. However, solar power cannot be generated while it is not exposed to sunlight. On the other hand, wind power cannot be generated while the wind is not blowing. As described above, the power generation system using natural energy has a problem that the supply amount of electric power greatly varies and cannot be stably used.

  As means for solving such problems, a fuel cell, a solar cell, and a wind power generator are provided, and an electrolyzer that electrolyzes water into oxygen and hydrogen with electric power generated by the solar cell and the wind power generator; A power supply device (power generation system) including a hydrogen storage device for storing hydrogen is known (see Japanese Patent Application Laid-Open No. 2001-266923 (Patent Document 1 below)). It is said that such a hybrid system using natural energy and chemical energy enables an economical and stable self-supply of power.

  Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2004-71487 (Patent Document 2 below) discloses a plurality of wind power generators, a rectifier circuit that converts AC power output from the wind power generator into DC, and a plurality of solar power generators. Equipment, an electrolyzer that decomposes water into hydrogen and oxygen by the electric power from these wind power generators and solar power generators, and the hydrogen from the electrolyzer is converted into electric power by combining it with oxygen to produce an electrical load. A distributed power generation system is disclosed that includes a fuel cell that supplies power to a battery. According to this, it is said that the output instability can be reduced and smoothed without requiring a complicated control circuit.

  However, the power generation system as described above basically stores natural energy converted into hydrogen gas. In this case, there is a problem that the energy cannot be stored effectively because the energy conversion efficiency when hydrogen is obtained from water using natural energy and the energy conversion efficiency when power is obtained from the fuel cell using hydrogen is poor. .

  Japanese Patent Laid-Open No. 2003-257443 (Patent Document 3 below) discloses a natural energy generator that converts natural energy into DC power and supplies a DC voltage to a power load system via a DC bus, and the DC bus. A hydrogen generator for generating hydrogen gas by electrolysis by supplying a DC voltage from a natural energy generator, and an electrochemical reaction between an oxidant gas and the hydrogen gas supplied from the hydrogen generator. A self-contained power generation system including a natural energy power generation device including a fuel cell that generates power and supplies a DC voltage to the power load system and a fuel cell is disclosed. According to this, it is said that the power generation system can be operated even in a region outside the commercial system or in a situation where the commercial system cannot be used due to an unexpected failure.

  However, the above power generation system distributes the electric power obtained by the natural energy generator with unstable output to the electric power load, secondary battery, and hydrogen generator using a DC bus and controller. When there is a sudden output fluctuation in the energy generator, there is a problem that the controller cannot respond instantaneously and cannot supply stable power to the power load. In addition, the fuel cell must always be on standby even if it does not generate power in preparation for fluctuations in the output of the natural energy generator, which consumes excess power and is therefore suitable for small power generation systems. Absent. Furthermore, of the power output from the natural energy generator, surplus power other than the power sent to the power load is used as the power of the hydrogen generator, but depending on the natural energy output and power load, the power that contributes to the hydrogen generator. However, considering the power required to operate the hydrogen generator, the energy conversion efficiency is not always high, and it is difficult to say that natural energy can be used to the maximum. Furthermore, there is a problem in that it cannot be suitably used in cold and cold areas because it does not heat water electrolyzers or fuel cells using electric power obtained from natural energy. Furthermore, there is also a problem that when there is no wind and no sunshine, no more power can be obtained if the accumulated natural energy is exhausted.

  In any power generation system, the electrolyzer stores water and electrolytic solution for electrolysis. Therefore, in cold regions, especially when the fuel cell is not operating, the water generated when operating the electrolyte and the fuel cell, or the water used to humidify the electrolyte in the solid polymer electrolyte fuel cell However, there is a problem that such a power generation system cannot be suitably used.

In addition to the power generation system described above, a system in which all natural energy is stored in a storage battery and supplied to an electric power load is also conceivable. In this case, there is a problem that the storage battery must be made large because it cannot store more than the allowable power of the storage battery. In addition, when natural energy exceeding the allowable power of the storage battery is supplied to the storage battery, not only is the natural energy wasted, but also water is electrolyzed in the storage battery, and the storage battery temperature is set to a predetermined temperature due to heat generation. There is a problem that it rises more and sometimes deteriorates.
JP 2001-266923 A JP 2004-71487 A JP2003-257443

  An object of this invention is to provide the electric power generation system which can use natural energy efficiently efficiently.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a power generation system using natural energy that can supply power stably even in cold regions.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a power generation system in which a storage battery or the like is hardly deteriorated even when excessive natural energy is supplied.

  An object of the present invention is to provide a relatively small and lightweight power generation system.

  The present invention has been made to solve any one or more of the above-mentioned problems. Basically, natural energy is stored as electric power of a storage battery, and hydrogen generated by electrolysis is stored in a fuel cell. The knowledge that natural energy can be efficiently stored by storing as a power source, and a heating means for heating the water electrolyzer or the fuel cell in the power supply system are provided, and the heating means The knowledge that by supplying power properly, extra power will be consumed, but by preventing the electrolyte from freezing, power can be supplied stably even in cold regions. Etc. That is, the present invention relates to the following power supply system.

  [1] A power generation system according to the present invention includes a power generation means using either or both of wind power generation and solar power generation, a storage battery for storing the power obtained by the power generation means, and the power obtained by the power generation means. A water electrolysis tank for decomposing water into hydrogen and oxygen using hydrogen, a hydrogen storage section for storing hydrogen generated in the water electrolysis tank, hydrogen generated in the water electrolysis tank, or the hydrogen storage A fuel cell for obtaining electric power using hydrogen stored in the unit, electric power obtained by the power generation means, electric power accumulated in the storage battery, and a supply destination of electric power obtained by the fuel cell An electric power control system comprising: an electric power control means for storing and using the electric power obtained by the electric power generation means in the storage battery; and the electric power stored in the electric storage battery or the electric power generation means. Using the obtained electric power, the water in the water electrolysis tank is decomposed into hydrogen and oxygen, the hydrogen generated in the water electrolysis tank is stored in the hydrogen storage section, and the fuel cell is used in the water electrolysis tank. In the power generation system, electric power is obtained by using generated hydrogen or hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit, and the electric power control unit controls electric power supplied to the electric load and the heating unit.

  The power generation system of the present invention not only can store natural energy in a storage battery and supply it to an electric power load, but also stores power that cannot be stored in the storage battery by converting it into hydrogen gas that can be converted into electric power by a fuel cell. Therefore, it is possible to provide a power generation system that can effectively use natural energy efficiently.

  [2] The power generation system according to the present invention is preferably the power generation system according to the above [1], further comprising heating means for heating either or both of the water electrolyzer and the fuel cell.

  Since natural energy is stored according to power consumption and not available, not only can the stored power be used, but either one or both of the water electrolyzer or fuel cell can be heated by heating means. Hydrogen conversion of electric power in the water electrolyser by preventing equipment malfunction such as damage to water electrolyzer piping due to freezing of water, water supply failure, clogging of fuel cell gas piping, and temperature rise of the equipment It is possible to provide a power generation system capable of preventing a situation where efficiency and power conversion efficiency of hydrogen energy in a fuel cell are reduced.

  [3] The power generation system of the present invention is preferably the power generation system according to the above [1], further comprising a backup hydrogen storage unit that can supply hydrogen to the fuel cell and can be replaced.

  Hydrogen can be supplied to the fuel cell by the backup hydrogen storage unit, so even if it is difficult to supply power in an emergency, for example, hydrogen is supplied from the backup hydrogen storage unit to the fuel cell. It will be possible to obtain.

  [4] The power generation system of the present invention preferably further comprises a temperature measuring means for measuring the temperature of the water in the water electrolyzer, wherein the power control means is a temperature measured by the temperature measuring means. The power generation system according to [1], wherein power is supplied to the heating unit when the temperature becomes equal to or lower than a predetermined temperature.

  Since the temperature measuring means is provided, it is possible to effectively prevent the water in the water electrolysis tank from freezing.

  [5] In the power generation system of the present invention, preferably, the power control means generates power in the fuel cell when the voltage value of the storage battery is less than a first set value, and the power load or When power is supplied to the heating means and the voltage value of the storage battery is not less than the first set value and less than the second set value, power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load or the heating means, When the voltage value of the storage battery is greater than or equal to the second set value and the amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit is less than a predetermined value, power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load or the heating means. And using the electric power stored in the storage battery by the power generation means to generate hydrogen in the water electrolysis tank, store the hydrogen in the hydrogen storage unit, and the voltage value of the storage battery is the second setting Greater than the value and the water When the amount of hydrogen stored in the storage unit is equal to or greater than a predetermined value, the power is controlled so that the power stored in the storage battery by the power generation unit is supplied to the heating unit or the dummy load. Power generation system.

  [6] In the power generation system of the present invention, preferably, the power control means generates power in the fuel cell when the voltage value of the storage battery is less than a first set value, and the power load or When power is supplied to the heating means and the voltage value of the storage battery is not less than the first set value and less than the second set value, power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load or the heating means, When the third set value larger than the second set value is reached by the power generation means and the amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit is less than a predetermined value, power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load. Further, hydrogen is generated in the water electrolyzer and the electric power is controlled so that the hydrogen is stored in the hydrogen storage unit. As a result, when the voltage of the storage battery becomes less than the second set value, or the hydrogen storage The amount of hydrogen stored in the If it reaches the upper limit, the power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load, but the supply of power to the water electrolysis tank is stopped, the storage battery is charged by the power generation means, and the voltage again exceeds the third set value. When the amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit is less than the predetermined value, the supply of power to the water electrolysis tank is resumed while supplying power from the storage battery to the power load, and the voltage of the storage battery is When the amount exceeds the third set value and the amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit is greater than or equal to a predetermined value, the power stored in the storage battery by the power generation unit is supplied to the heating unit or the dummy load. It is an electric power generation system given in the above [1] which performs control.

  Electric power obtained from natural energy can be used to the maximum extent possible, and even when excessive natural energy is supplied, if the storage power of the storage battery is above a certain level, the electric power is converted to hydrogen and stored. In addition, surplus power is supplied to heating means and dummy loads to prevent a situation where power is excessively supplied to the storage battery, etc., so that an excessive temperature rise of the storage battery can be prevented and the power generation system hardly deteriorates. Can be provided.

  [7] In the power generation system according to the present invention, preferably, when the voltage value of the storage battery is less than a predetermined value, the power control means uses the hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit to perform the fuel cell operation. The power generation system according to [1], wherein the electric power is generated and controlled to supply electric power to the storage battery.

  [8] The power generation system of the present invention preferably further includes a backup hydrogen storage unit capable of supplying hydrogen to the fuel cell, and when the voltage value of the storage battery is less than a predetermined amount, The power generation system according to [1], further comprising means for supplying the hydrogen stored in the storage unit to the fuel cell with priority over the hydrogen stored in the backup hydrogen storage unit.

  [9] An aspect different from the above of the power generation system of the present invention includes a power generation means by wind power generation and / or solar power generation, a storage battery for storing the power obtained by the power generation means, A fuel that has a water electrolysis function of decomposing water into hydrogen and oxygen using the electric power obtained by the power generation means, and obtains electric power using the hydrogen generated thereby or the hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit An electrolytic cell having a battery function, a hydrogen storage unit for storing hydrogen generated when the electrolytic cell obtains electric power, electric power obtained by the power generation means, electric power accumulated in the storage battery, and A power control means for controlling a supply destination of power obtained by the electrolysis cell, wherein the power obtained by the power generation means is stored and used in a storage battery. , Using the electric power stored in the storage battery or the electric power obtained by the power generation means, the water in the electrolysis cell is decomposed into hydrogen and oxygen, and the hydrogen generated in the electrolysis cell is stored in the hydrogen storage section. It is a power generation system in which electric power is obtained using hydrogen generated and stored or hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit, and the electric power control unit controls electric power supplied to the electric load and the heating unit.

  Since a fuel cell having a function of electrolyzing water is used, the water electrolyzer and the fuel cell can be integrated, and the entire system can be made relatively small and lightweight.

  According to the present invention, not only the natural energy can be stored in the storage battery and supplied to the power load, but also the power that the storage battery cannot store can be stored after being converted into hydrogen gas that can be converted into electric power by the fuel cell. Therefore, it is possible to provide a power generation system that can effectively use natural energy efficiently.

  According to the present invention, natural energy is stored in accordance with power consumption, and when the natural energy cannot be obtained, the stored power can be used, and either or both of the water electrolysis tank and the fuel cell are used by the heating means. Since water can be heated, water electrolysis can be prevented by preventing the equipment from operating normally, such as water electrolysis tank piping breakage due to freezing of water, poor water transfer, and fuel cell gas piping clogging, and the temperature of the equipment rises. It is possible to provide a power generation system capable of preventing a situation in which the hydrogen conversion efficiency of power in a tank and the power conversion efficiency of hydrogen energy in a fuel cell are reduced.

  According to the present invention, even when excessive natural energy is supplied, if the storage power of the storage battery is greater than a certain level, the power is converted to hydrogen and stored, and the surplus power is further stored in the heating means or the dummy. Since it prevents the situation where power is supplied to a load and power is excessively supplied to a storage battery or the like, an excessive temperature rise of the storage battery can be prevented and a power generation system that is not easily deteriorated can be provided.

  According to the present invention, not only the storage battery but also hydrogen obtained by decomposing water can be stored as an energy source, so that the weight of the storage battery can be reduced, and as a result, the entire power generation system can be reduced. A relatively small and lightweight power generation system can be provided. In the preferred embodiment of the present invention, since the fuel cell having the function of electrolyzing water is used, the water electrolyzer and the fuel cell can be integrated, and the entire system can be made relatively small and light.

  Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. FIG. 1 is a block diagram for explaining an embodiment of the present invention.

  As shown in FIG. 1, a power generation system 1 according to the present invention includes a power generation means 2, a storage battery 3, a water electrolysis tank 4, a hydrogen storage section 5, a fuel cell 6, a heating means 7, and a power control means. 8 and. In FIG. 1, 9 indicates a backup hydrogen storage unit, 10 indicates a temperature measuring means, 11 indicates a power load, 12-16 indicate wiring, and 17-26 indicate piping. Reference numeral 27 denotes a container filled with a desiccant such as zeolite, 28 denotes a fuel cutoff valve, 29 denotes a pressure regulator, and 30 denotes a reverse valve or pressure control means.

  The power generation system of the present invention stores and uses power obtained by power generation means using natural energy in a storage battery. The water in the water electrolyzer is decomposed into hydrogen and oxygen using the power stored in the storage battery or the power obtained by the power generation means (particularly the power that cannot be stored in the storage battery). Hydrogen generated in the water electrolyzer is stored in a hydrogen storage unit. The fuel cell obtains electric power using hydrogen generated in the water electrolyzer or hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit. The power control means controls the power supplied to the electric load and the heating means. In this way, especially when the natural energy is excessive, it is converted to hydrogen to store the energy, and converted to electric power as necessary. Thereby, even when natural energy cannot be obtained, it is possible to continue to supply power effectively. In addition, in certain cases, power is supplied to the heating means, preventing water and electrolytes from freezing, etc., preventing the device from malfunctioning, and shutting down the device until it is restarted. It is possible to prevent a situation where the hydrogen conversion efficiency of electric power deteriorates due to the decrease in power. Below, each element which comprises this invention is demonstrated.

  The power generation means 2 is means for obtaining electric power by wind power generation or solar power generation. In order to obtain electric power by wind power generation, a known wind power generator can be used. As such a wind power generator, there is one that rotates a propeller of a wind turbine by wind power, and the generator body rotates as the propeller rotates, thereby obtaining AC power. The electric power obtained by the power generation means 2 is transmitted to the storage battery via the conductor 12. When a wind power generator is used as the power generation means, the conductor 12 usually has a conversion means such as an A / D converter for converting the generated AC power into DC power, and a rectifier for rectifying the power. Etc. are further provided. Windmills are usually installed outdoors. On the other hand, in order to obtain electric power by solar power generation, a known solar power generation device can be used. As such a solar power generation device, a solar cell module including a large number of solar cells can be used. Solar cells are usually installed outdoors.

  More specific wind power generators include a propeller type (horizontal axis) wind generator and a gyromill type (vertical axis type) wind turbine. Propeller type (horizontal axis) wind power generator is a control that repeats yawing every time the wind direction changes because it cannot sense the wind direction and sufficient wind power cannot be obtained unless the wind turbine tip is guided to the wind direction position. Because of this method, power generation loss occurs in areas with wind direction fluctuations, which reduces power generation efficiency. In addition, even if the wind direction is stable, turbulent airflow is generated, which makes it impossible to follow pitch fluctuations due to fluctuations in the wind direction and wind speed, and therefore a function of emergency stop is necessary to ensure safety. However, in the case of a gyromill type (vertical axis type) wind turbine, unlike the conventional propeller type (horizontal axis) wind power generator, the rotating shaft is installed vertically, and the wind turbine blades are also two to six around the main axis. Because it is composed of a single blade, it can instantly generate power from all directions, even when wind fluctuations are severe, without the need for pitch fluctuations or yawing. In addition, it can be installed in a small space, has no omnidirectional characteristics, no wind direction control is required, and has a low wind noise and low noise type. A mill type (vertical axis type) wind turbine is more preferable.

  The storage battery 3 is for accumulating the electric power obtained by the power generation means 2, and the electric power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load 11, the water electrolysis tank 4, the heating means 7, or the like. The power supply means and the power supply partner and the amount of power to be supplied are adjusted by the power control means 8. A known storage battery can be used as the storage battery. As a preferred storage battery in the present invention, a cycle storage battery manufactured exclusively for applications in which recharging is performed after discharging from a fully charged state and after a certain discharge is desirable. The types include sodium-sulfur batteries and lead-acid batteries, but lead batteries with excellent electrical performance, compactness, and low cost are desirable, especially compared to sodium-sulfur batteries. Among them, a sealed lead-acid battery that is designed to be safe so that the liquid inside does not leak is desirable. The storage battery terminal voltage is 6V, 12V, 24V, 48V, etc. If there is a power load of 1kW or more, the storage battery terminal voltage is 24V or 48V even if the voltage is 100V AC. Therefore, it is desirable to reduce the value of the current flowing in the wiring to the inverter and the resistance of the wiring, etc., and to improve safety and energy saving.

  In the present specification, the “power load” means a load outside the system of the present invention that supplies power by the power generation system of the present invention, and examples thereof include power consuming materials such as home appliances in the home. If the power load requires AC power, such as home appliances, and the obtained power is DC power, the power is supplied to the power load through an AC converter or the like.

  The water electrolysis tank 4 is for decomposing water into hydrogen and oxygen by electrolysis using the power obtained by the power generation means 1 or the power stored in the storage battery 2. The hydrogen generated at this time becomes a power source in a fuel cell described later. The water electrolyzer is preferably configured to store 80% of the power when the amount of power stored in the storage battery exceeds a predetermined amount (for example, when 10% or more of the power stored in the storage battery is stored). When accumulated, more preferably when 90% or more is accumulated, and even more preferably when 100% of electric power is accumulated), electric power is supplied from the power generation means or the storage battery to cause electrolysis. In other words, in the present invention, the most desirable mode is that power is first stored in a storage battery, and when surplus power is supplied from natural energy, the natural energy is not wasted, but hydrogen is obtained in a water electrolyzer. This is used as the power source of the fuel cell. Note that the hydrogen generated in the water electrolysis tank is stored in a hydrogen storage section or a backup hydrogen storage section described later. Therefore, when the amount of hydrogen that can be stored in these storage units is greater than or equal to a predetermined amount (for example, the limit value of the storage amount), it is not desirable to obtain hydrogen in the water electrolysis tank. Therefore, when the hydrogen gas pressure measured by a pressure gauge attached to a pipe connected to these storage units is a predetermined amount or more, it is preferable to control so that electrolysis does not occur in the water electrolysis tank. In such a case, the surplus power is preferably supplied to the heating means and the dummy load by the power control means described later.

  A water electrolyzer usually has an electrolytic cell holding an electrolyte, an electrode catalyst for promoting the reaction of electrolyzing water into hydrogen and oxygen, and a current collector for supplying power from the outside. Yes. When using a liquid electrolyte, it is preferable to use an alkaline aqueous solution such as an aqueous potassium hydroxide solution for the electrolytic solution so as not to corrode even inexpensive components. When pure water is used, a solid polymer electrolyte such as Nafion can be used as the electrolyte. All of these water electrolyzers can be used at low temperatures of 100 ° C or less, and have the advantage of being able to start up in a short time. In any case, the hydrogen generated in the electrolysis cell is once a desiccant such as zeolite through the pipe 17 outside the water electrolysis tank, especially when using a commercially available fuel cell that requires a low dew point during injection for water management. Is dried in a container 27 filled with, and sent to a pipe 18. The hydrogen sent to the pipe 18 is sent to the fuel cell 6 via the pipes 19 and 26, the hydrogen storage unit 5 or the pipes 19, 20 and 21, the fuel cutoff valve 28, and the pipe 22. In the case where a backup hydrogen storage unit is used, for example, fuel is supplied via a pipe 25, a pressure regulator 29, a pipe 24, a reverse valve or pressure control means 30, pipes 23 and 21, a fuel cutoff valve 28, and a pipe 22. It is sent to the battery 6. Note that oxygen generated in the water electrolysis tank may be sent to the air electrode of the fuel cell through a pipe such as an oxygen pipe, or may be opened in the power generation system or to the atmosphere.

  The hydrogen storage unit 5 is for storing hydrogen generated in the water electrolysis tank. As the hydrogen storage unit, a known hydrogen cylinder, a pressure vessel for high pressure gas, or a secondary pressure vessel can be used. One or more hydrogen cylinders, high pressure gas pressure vessels, and secondary pressure vessels may be provided. Examples of materials for hydrogen cylinders, high pressure gas pressure vessels, and secondary pressure vessels include steel plates and plastics reinforced with carbon fibers, and any pressure vessel that exceeds the pressure applied to the water electrolysis tank may be used. That is, a secondary pressure vessel can be used if the pressure is 1 MPa or less, and a pressure vessel for high-pressure gas can be used if the pressure is more than 1 MPa.

As the hydrogen storage unit 5, a known hydrogen storage alloy may be used in addition to the hydrogen cylinder, the pressure vessel for high pressure gas, and the secondary pressure vessel. As the hydrogen storage alloy, AB5 type alloys such as rare earth metal-nickel and alloys with body-centered cubic (BCC) structure such as titanium and chromium can be used. When the hydrogen storage amount is increased or the same volume of hydrogen is stored by a method such as containing in a secondary pressure vessel, the pressure of the hydrogen storage unit can be reduced.

A pipe may be newly connected from the hydrogen storage unit 5 and a compressor for boosting the hydrogen may be used so that the hydrogen storage unit can store the boosted hydrogen. This is because if such a hydrogen storage unit is used, a large amount of hydrogen can be stored in a smaller space. An example of such a compressor is a piston multistage compressor, and a pressure of 0.6 MPa or more, more preferably 1 MPa or more, and further preferably 10 MPa or more is preferable. An oil-free type is desirable so as not to lower the purity of hydrogen. In order to store the boosted hydrogen, the hydrogen storage unit only needs to withstand the boosted pressure of the compressor. A normal high-pressure gas storage unit has a pressure resistance of 20 MPa, so that it can store pressurized hydrogen.

  The fuel cell 6 is for obtaining electric power using hydrogen generated in the water electrolyzer 4, hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit, or hydrogen stored in the backup hydrogen storage unit. These hydrogens are transmitted to the fuel cell via piping 17 to 26, for example. A known fuel cell can be used as the fuel cell. The fuel cell basically generates water by taking a reaction opposite to the electrolysis of water and extracts electric power. FIG. 2 shows the basic structure of the fuel cell.

  FIG. 2 is a schematic diagram showing the basic structure of the fuel cell. An example of the fuel cell 6 has a configuration in which a plurality of cells 31 are stacked. As shown in FIG. 2, each cell 31 is provided with a catalyst layer 33 on both ends of an electrolyte 32, and is pressure-bonded with a gas diffusion layer 34 having a function of diffusing gas on the outer side. It has the separator 35 with the groove | channel which introduce | transduces. The separator 35 is usually provided with a large number of grooves, which increases the surface area on each electrode, so that the fuel cell can be made compact. Then, hydrogen is supplied from the hydrogen supply port 36 to the fuel electrode of each cell of the fuel cell. On the other hand, oxygen is supplied to the air electrode from the oxygen supply port 37 through, for example, a compressor and piping from the atmosphere. At this time, when a perfluorosulfonic acid type electrolyte is used as the electrolyte of the cell, a humidifier may be installed in order to increase the ionic conductivity. At the fuel electrode, hydrogen becomes hydrogen ions and electrons on the catalyst. The hydrogen ions move to the air electrode via the electrolyte 32, and the electrons are collected from the current collector plate 38 and reach the air electrode via an external circuit. On the other hand, at the air electrode, oxygen is combined with hydrogen ions and electrons to produce water. In this way, electric power according to the amount of hydrogen supplied to the fuel cell and the power generation efficiency can be obtained, and the energy that has not been converted into electric power is converted into heat. Conversely, it consumes an amount of hydrogen corresponding to the power supplied to the power load and the power generation efficiency.

  In addition, as a fuel cell, what can perform the reverse reaction of the electrochemical reaction which occurs at the time of generating electric power as follows, ie, the electrolysis reaction of water, in the same cell is preferable. FIG. 3 is a block diagram of a power generation system using a fuel cell that can perform an electrolysis reaction of water in the same cell. For example, as shown in FIG. 3, when gas-liquid separators 45 and 46 are installed and power generation is performed, hydrogen is supplied from the hydrogen storage unit 51 to the fuel electrode, and a part can be exhausted by the three-way solenoid valve 55. On the air side, air is sucked in from the compressor 49, and is introduced into the air electrode of the fuel cell via the solenoid valve 58 and the gas-liquid separator 45 that functions as an electrolyte humidifier. The structure is such that the electromagnetic valve 56 can exhaust. On the other hand, when water is electrolyzed in the same cell, water is supplied from the water storage tank 52 to the gas-liquid separator 45 by the pump 54 using the float 47, and water is supplied to the electrolysis cell by the circulation pump 53. Supply. The generated oxygen is exhausted together with water that has not contributed to the reaction, and is separated into oxygen containing water and moisture by the gas-liquid separator 45, and oxygen is released out of the system from the electromagnetic valve 48. In the fuel electrode on the opposite side, hydrogen containing moisture is generated, passes through the container 50 containing the desiccant, and the dried hydrogen is stored. Further, the water in the gas-liquid separator 45 uses the float 48, and when an appropriate amount of water is obtained, the electromagnetic valve 57 is opened and returned to the water storage tank 52. Such a fuel cell can also function as a water electrolysis tank. Therefore, according to the power generation system of this aspect, the size of the system can be reduced.

  It is a preferred embodiment of the present invention that the fuel cutoff valve 28 is provided in the piping 22 for supplying hydrogen to the fuel cell. This fuel shut-off valve is preferably controlled by the power control means so that the valve opens only when the fuel cell is operating. This prevents the situation where hydrogen is supplied when the fuel cell is not in operation, so there is no problem even when using a commercially available fuel cell that requires a fuel cutoff valve and its control circuit at the hydrogen supply port. Can be used.

  The heating means 7 is an arbitrary means for heating either or both of the water electrolyzer and the fuel cell, and is not particularly limited as long as it includes one that is supplied with electric power and dissipates heat. As a heating means, a resistor such as a nichrome wire can be used. Further, heat generated when power is obtained from the fuel cell may be used together. Further, the water electrolysis tank or the fuel cell may be indirectly heated by heating the entire interior of the system (for example, a heat insulation container or a heat insulation house) including the water electrolysis tank or the fuel cell. The power supplied to the heating means is adjusted by, for example, the power control means.

  The power control means 8 is a means for controlling the supply destination of the power obtained by the power generation means, the power accumulated in the storage battery, or the power obtained by the fuel cell. Although not particularly illustrated, the power control means is electrically connected to a part that receives information or provides information. Then, the power control means obtains information such as each voltage value from the means for measuring the voltage value of each battery or the like, and information such as the gas pressure value from the means for measuring the hydrogen gas pressure in the hydrogen storage unit. In accordance with the obtained information such as the voltage value and the amount of hydrogen gas, the power generation location and the power supply destination are controlled. Specific examples of the power control means include a computer equipped with a program for causing a computer to function as the power control means. That is, information from measuring means such as various measuring instruments is input to the computer. The storage means (ROM, RAM, HD, etc.) of the computer stores various setting values and predetermined values. These values may be changeable. The comparison means compares the information regarding the input measurement value with the value stored by the storage means. Then, the command unit issues a command for determining the power supply destination and the like based on the comparison result of the comparison unit. In this way, the power supply destination can be appropriately controlled.

  The temperature measuring means 10 for measuring the temperature of the water in the water electrolysis tank is further provided, and the power control means is configured such that when the temperature measured by the temperature measuring means falls below a predetermined temperature, the heating means It is a preferred embodiment of the present invention that supplies power to the. As such temperature measuring means, a known electronic thermometer, a thermistor type using a resistor having a large change in electrical resistance with respect to temperature, or a resistance temperature measuring resistor in which the temperature resistivity of a metal such as platinum changes in proportion to the temperature. And a thermocouple that uses thermoelectromotive force when two different metals are joined and the two junctions are brought to different temperatures. The temperature information measured by the temperature measuring means is transmitted to the power control means. In this aspect, the power control means can control the supply of power as described above by supplying a predetermined amount of power to the heating means when the transmitted temperature information is below a predetermined temperature. . Here, examples of the predetermined temperature include −20 ° C. to 10 ° C., preferably −10 ° C. to 5 ° C., and more preferably −5 ° C. to 5 ° C.

  The temperature measurement means not only measures the temperature of the water in the water electrolysis tank, but also the temperature at any point in the power generation system (for example, the temperature inside or outside the piping, the temperature of the fuel cell, the surface temperature of the storage battery, The temperature of the water electrolysis tank or the system atmosphere temperature of the power generation system) may be measured.

  In one aspect of the power control means 8, when the voltage value of the storage battery is less than a first set value, the fuel cell generates power, supplies power to the power load or the heating means, When the voltage value of the storage battery is not less than the first set value and less than the second set value, power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load or the heating means, and the voltage value of the storage battery is the second set value. If the amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit is less than a predetermined value, the power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load or the heating means, and further to the storage battery by the power generation means. Using the stored electric power, hydrogen is generated in the water electrolyzer, the hydrogen is stored in the hydrogen storage unit, the voltage value of the storage battery is not less than the second set value, and the hydrogen storage unit The amount of hydrogen stored in The case is at least, controls the power to supply the electric power to be accumulated in the battery to the heating means or a dummy load by the power generating means.

    Here, “when the voltage value of the storage battery is less than the first set value” means, for example, the extent to which power cannot be effectively supplied, and differs depending on the rated voltage of the storage battery. For example, when the rated voltage of the storage battery is 48 V, it means that the storage battery voltage is 0 V to 45 V, preferably 30 V to 40 V, and more preferably, the power cannot be effectively supplied. In this case, power is supplied to the power load by supplying hydrogen to the fuel cell from the hydrogen storage part that has already been stored. As a result, even when the stored power of the storage battery is scarce, power can be supplied to the power load using the fuel cell. In particular, even when the natural energy stored in the storage battery is used up and the energy obtained from the natural energy is scarce, it is possible to effectively supply power to the power load.

  Here, “when the voltage value of the storage battery is greater than or equal to the first set value and less than the second set value” means that, for example, power can be effectively supplied from the storage battery to the power load, but there is surplus power in the storage battery. It does not mean that it means a voltage value that causes energy loss by supplying power to the water electrolyzer, and differs depending on the rated voltage of the storage battery. For example, when the rated voltage of the storage battery is 48V, the storage battery voltage is 30V to 48V, preferably 40V to 48V, and more preferably, power can be effectively supplied from the storage battery to the power load, but the storage battery has excess power. Instead, it means a voltage value that causes energy loss by supplying power to the water electrolyzer. When power is supplied to the water electrolyzer, converted to hydrogen, stored in the hydrogen storage unit, and supplied to the fuel cell as described above, the efficiency of converting power to hydrogen and the efficiency of exchanging hydrogen for power are generated. However, in this case where the storage battery is not surplus, supplying power to the water electrolyzer causes loss of energy, and as described above, the power supply from the storage battery is preferably limited to the power load or heating means.

  Here, “when the voltage value of the storage battery is greater than or equal to the second set value and the amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit is less than a predetermined value” means, for example, that power is effectively transferred from the storage battery to the power load. In addition, there is surplus power in the storage battery, and the voltage of the storage battery is such that the energy can be stored by supplying power to the water electrolyzer. This means that the pressure is less than the pressure resistance of the water electrolyzer or pipe, and hydrogen can be stored, and it depends on the rated voltage of the storage battery and the pressure of the water electrolyzer or pipe. For example, if the rated voltage of the storage battery is 48V, the storage battery voltage is 40V or more, preferably 44V or more, more preferably 48V or more, and more preferably power can be effectively supplied from the storage battery to the power load. It means a voltage value at which power is stored in the storage battery and energy can be stored by supplying power to the water electrolyzer. As for the pressure resistance of water electrolyzers and pipes, the pressure of hydrogen existing in them means, for example, 10 kPa to less than 100 MPa, preferably less than 100 kPa to 10 MPa, more preferably less than 0.6 MPa, preferably This means that the pressure is below the pressure resistance of the water electrolyzer and piping, and that hydrogen can be stored at a certain pressure. In this case, since the power of the storage battery is surplus, energy can be stored by supplying power from the storage battery to the power load and heating means, supplying power to the water electrolyzer, and storing hydrogen.

  Here, “when the voltage value of the storage battery is greater than or equal to the second set value and the amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit is greater than or equal to the predetermined value” means that the rated voltage of the storage battery, the water electrolyzer or the piping is It depends on the pressure resistance. For example, regarding the rated voltage value of a storage battery, when the voltage is 48 V, the storage battery voltage is 40 V or more, preferably 44 V or more, more preferably 48 V or more, and more preferably power is effectively supplied from the storage battery to a power load or heating means. In addition, it means a voltage value that allows the storage battery to store energy by supplying power to the water electrolyzer. Regarding the pressure resistance of water electrolyzers and pipes, the pressure of hydrogen existing in them means, for example, 10 kPa to 100 MPa, preferably 100 kPa to 10 MPa, more preferably 0.6 MPa or more, preferably water electrolysis This means that the tank or piping pressure exceeds its pressure resistance and the amount of hydrogen that can be stored is full. In this case, although the power of the storage battery is surplus, when the power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load or the heating means and the power is supplied to the water electrolysis tank, the water electrolysis tank excessively electrolyzes the water. This may cause a situation in which the pressure of hydrogen gas in the water electrolyzer and piping increases abnormally. Further, when power is not supplied from the storage battery to the means for consuming power, there is a possibility that power is excessively supplied from the power generation means to the storage battery and the temperature of the storage battery rises. For this reason, it is preferable to control the power so that the power stored in the storage battery by the power generation means is supplied to the heating means or the dummy load. Control is made so that power is preferentially supplied to the heating means when the temperature of the heating means is lower than a predetermined temperature, and power is supplied preferentially to the dummy load when the heating temperature is higher than the predetermined temperature. You may do it. By controlling in this way, it is possible to prevent excessive electrolysis in the water electrolysis tank. Furthermore, it is possible to prevent a situation where water or an electrolytic solution evaporates due to heating of the water electrolysis tank by the heating means, and it is possible to prevent a situation where the fuel cell is overheated, the electrolyte is dried, and the power conversion efficiency is lowered.

  By controlling in this way, the electric power obtained from natural energy can be used to the maximum extent possible, and it is possible to prevent deterioration of the storage battery, damage to the water electrolyzer and piping, and to provide stable power to the power load. .

  In the above control, there are cases where the voltage of the storage battery changes in the vicinity of the second set value and the water electrolyzer must be frequently started and stopped, which is preferable for stable operation of the water electrolyzer. Absent. In this case, it is preferable to perform power control as follows.

  When the storage battery voltage is set to a predetermined value 3 greater than the predetermined value 2, the storage battery voltage value is greater than or equal to a third set value, and the amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit is less than the predetermined value, Power is supplied to the power load, hydrogen is generated in the water electrolyzer, and the power is controlled to store the hydrogen in the hydrogen storage unit. As a result, the storage battery voltage is less than the second set value. If the amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit reaches a predetermined value or more, the power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load, but the power supply to the water electrolyzer is stopped, and the power generation means When the storage battery is charged, the voltage again becomes equal to or higher than the third set value, and the amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit is less than the predetermined value, power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load. , Supply of electric power to water electrolyzer Resume.

  Here, “when the voltage value of the storage battery is greater than or equal to the third set value” means that the storage battery can effectively supply power to the power load, and the storage battery has surplus power, which supplies power to the water electrolyzer. This means a voltage value that enables energy storage, and by making a difference between the second set value and a constant value, avoiding frequent starting and stopping of the water electrolyzer, It depends on the rated voltage and capacity of the storage battery. For example, when the rated voltage of the storage battery is 48 V, 65 A · h, the storage battery voltage is 0.1 V or more larger than the second set value, preferably 1 V or more, more preferably 4 V or more, more preferably from the storage battery. Power can be effectively supplied to the power load, and the storage battery has surplus power. By supplying power to the water electrolyzer, energy can be stored, and the difference between the second set value and a constant value is possible. This means that the voltage value is such that frequent start and stop of the water electrolyzer can be avoided.

  The voltage value of the storage battery can be measured by voltage measuring means such as a voltmeter attached to the storage battery. And the information regarding the voltage measured by the voltage measurement means is transmitted to the power control means. Then, the power control means compares the information on the transmitted voltage with a preset voltage value, and when the voltage is lower than the set voltage, the fuel shut-off is performed so that the fuel cell generates power. Control valve 28 to open. As a result, when the power stored in the storage battery becomes low, power can be obtained from the fuel cell using hydrogen. As will be described later, the valve of the hydrogen storage unit is preferably opened preferentially, and when the hydrogen in the hydrogen storage unit is low, the valve of the backup hydrogen storage unit is opened.

  Another preferred mode of the power control means is that when the voltage value of the storage battery is less than a predetermined value, the fuel cell generates power using hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage part (or backup hydrogen storage part). And control to supply power to the storage battery. Here, “the voltage value of the storage battery is less than a predetermined value” differs depending on the rated voltage of the storage battery. For example, when the rated voltage value of the storage battery is 48V, it means 0V to 45V, preferably 30 to 40V, particularly preferably the state where the amount of electric power stored in the storage battery is the maximum amount. More preferably, it means a voltage value at which the storage battery cannot supply power to the power load. By controlling the supply of power in this way, even when the stored power of the storage battery is scarce, power can be supplied to the power load using the fuel cell. In particular, even when the natural energy stored in the storage battery is used up and the energy obtained from the natural energy is scarce, it is possible to effectively supply power to the power load. While information on the amount of hydrogen (pressure) contained in the hydrogen storage unit is obtained by pressure measuring means such as a pressure gauge that measures the pressure in the hydrogen storage unit, and while hydrogen is present in the hydrogen storage unit, It is a preferred embodiment of the present invention that the hydrogen is preferentially acquired from the hydrogen storage unit and is controlled to acquire hydrogen from the backup hydrogen storage unit when no hydrogen is present in the hydrogen storage unit. Which storage unit obtains hydrogen can be easily controlled by a control mechanism connected to a valve or the like and the measuring means. That is, when the measurement means determines that hydrogen remains in a certain hydrogen storage section, the information is transmitted to the control mechanism, and the control mechanism transmits information to open the valve of the hydrogen storage section. The valve is opened a predetermined amount. On the other hand, when the measuring means determines that no hydrogen remains in all the hydrogen storage units, the information is transmitted to the control mechanism, and the control mechanism opens the valve of the backup hydrogen storage unit by a predetermined amount, Thereby, hydrogen is supplied from the hydrogen storage unit for backup. The measuring means measures the pressure of the gas present in the pipe connected to the storage unit, not in the normal storage unit.

  The backup hydrogen storage unit 9 is for supplying hydrogen to the fuel cell even when the hydrogen storage unit runs out of hydrogen. As a hydrogen storage part for backup, a pressure vessel for high-pressure gas, such as a steel plate or a plastic reinforced with carbon fiber which has been developed recently, can be mentioned. The hydrogen pressure in the backup hydrogen storage unit is preferably 1 MPa or more, but may be 1 kPa to 1 MPa. The backup hydrogen storage unit is connected to the fuel cell through pipes 23, 24, 25, and the like. A backup hydrogen storage unit is replaceable. If replacement is possible, a hydrogen storage unit for backup is prepared, so that natural energy cannot be obtained and power can be supplied even when power is not stored in the storage battery. Furthermore, even in such a state, moisture freezes, preventing the malfunction of water electrolyzer piping, poor water supply, clogged fuel cell gas piping, etc. By doing so, it is possible to prevent a situation in which the hydrogen conversion efficiency of power in the water electrolyzer and the power conversion efficiency of hydrogen energy in the fuel cell are reduced.

  It is another preferred embodiment of the present invention to provide a pressure regulator 29 and a reverse valve 30 (or pressure measuring means) in the backup hydrogen storage section (pipe). By adopting such a configuration, when hydrogen generated from the water electrolyzer is stored in another storage unit, hydrogen is not discharged from the backup hydrogen storage unit, and gas is also stored in the hydrogen storage unit. When not stored, hydrogen is automatically supplied to the pipe from the backup hydrogen storage section as the pressure of the hydrogen pipe decreases. For this reason, when there is no storage power in the storage battery and the amount of hydrogen required for power generation using the fuel cell is not stored in the storage unit when dealing with the power load, the backup hydrogen storage unit automatically Hydrogen is supplied to the fuel cell. Here, the pressure regulator means a device that controls a high pressure gas to a low pressure and supplies it to a pipe, etc. For example, a single-stage pressure adjustment employing a stainless diaphragm that controls a high pressure gas such as 15 MPa to 0.1 MPa. A bowl is raised.

  When the hydrogen pressure in the hydrogen storage unit for backup becomes less than a predetermined amount, it is necessary to provide means for transmitting the information (for example, a system that can wirelessly send a signal when the pressure falls below a predetermined amount and receive it at a remote location). , Another preferred embodiment of the present invention. In such a power generation system, when hydrogen is reduced in the backup hydrogen storage unit, the hydrogen storage unit stored as a backup can be replaced, so that power can be supplied stably at all times. In other words, even in the event of an emergency such as a natural disaster, power can be obtained by using a backup hydrogen storage unit.

  Note that if the storable amount of the hydrogen storage unit (whole) is sufficiently large relative to the power load, a backup hydrogen storage unit system need not be provided.

  In addition, it is a preferable embodiment of the present invention to cover the entire power generation system, piping, or water electrolysis tank with a heat insulating member. In this way, it is possible to effectively prevent a situation in which the efficiency deteriorates due to condensation even in a cold region. As such a heat insulating member, a known heat insulating member can be used. For example, polyurethane, polyethylene, phenol resin, foamed styrene, glass wool, cellulose fiber, rock wall, or the like can be used alone or in combination. . More specifically, (1) for example, a polyurethane heat insulating material described in Japanese Patent No. 3292901, a polyurethane foam heat insulating material described in Japanese Patent No. 3423090, a polystyrene resin foam heat insulating material described in Japanese Patent No. 3273665, and a polyethylene resin Heat insulation material obtained by high foaming of Asahi Kasei's heat insulation material “Sunnylight” (registered trademark), etc., phenol foam using polyester non-woven paper as a face material (Asahi Kasei's heat insulation material “Neoma Foam” (registered trademark) (2) Carbon fiber-based molded heat insulating material described in Japanese Patent No. 3390182, zirconia composite fireproof heat insulating material described in Japanese Patent Publication No. 6-53626, and Japanese Patent Publication No. 8- Inorganic heat insulating material described in Japanese Patent No. 005733, and blown glass described in Japanese Patent No. 2753888 Glass wool type heat insulating materials such as wool heat insulating materials; (3) for example, cellulose fiber type heat insulating materials described in JP-B-7-004914; (4) rock wall type heat insulating materials, Two or more can be appropriately employed. In this case, the heat insulating member may cover a part or the entire object. The thickness of the heat insulating member is usually 1 mm to 100 mm, although it depends on the material.

  The use of a dummy load is another preferred embodiment of the present invention. “Dummy load” means a load for consuming surplus power. “Dummy loads” include resistors such as wound resistance tubes that are nonflammable and have high reliability without igniting. When the dummy load is used, it is possible to prevent a situation in which surplus power is generated, the heating means heats more than necessary, and the electrolyte solution evaporates or the storage battery deteriorates. The power supplied to the dummy load is also preferably controlled by the power control means. Specifically, the temperature of the heating means is provided to the power control means, and if the heating means is above a certain temperature based on the information, no further power is supplied to the heating means and the dummy load is supplied. Control to supply power.

  “Means of supplying hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit to the fuel cell with priority over the hydrogen stored in the backup hydrogen storage unit” means that the hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit is stored in the backup hydrogen storage unit. The means is not particularly limited as long as it can be supplied to the fuel cell more preferentially, and a known mechanism having such a function can be used as appropriate. As a specific example of such means, a pressure gauge or the like capable of measuring the hydrogen pressure in the hydrogen storage unit is provided in the pipe from the hydrogen storage unit, and the hydrogen pressure in the hydrogen storage unit is below a predetermined amount (for example, 1 MPa or less). , Preferably 0.15 MPa or less), so that the valve of the backup hydrogen storage unit is opened. As another example, a backup hydrogen storage unit is provided with a pressure regulator, and a check valve is provided at the pressure regulator. In the case of adopting such a configuration, when the pressure of the hydrogen gas in the hydrogen pipe connected to the hydrogen storage unit is higher than the secondary pressure of the backup hydrogen storage unit, it is stored in the hydrogen storage unit. The hydrogen gas is extracted with priority over the hydrogen gas stored in the backup hydrogen storage unit and supplied to the fuel cell.

  In the power generation system of the present invention, parts other than the power generation means may be housed in a space such as a heat-insulated or sealed hut or container. Further, parts other than the power generation means may be housed in a container or the like. Such a power generation system is preferable because it can be carried relatively easily. In this case, a unit-type heat insulation prefab of about 3600 x 1800mm can be mentioned as the volume of the hut. In the power generation system of the present invention, since the storage battery and the fuel cell are used, the power generation system can be made relatively small.

  FIG. 4 is a diagram showing an example of a power generation system according to another embodiment of the present invention. Since the reference numerals in FIG. 4 are the same as those described above, the descriptions thereof are cited here and are not particularly described repeatedly. In the power generation system of this example, one electrolytic cell has the functions of the water electrolysis tank and the fuel cell of the previous example. That is, since these two parts can be combined into one part, the entire system can be made smaller and lighter. Such an electrolysis cell has a water electrolysis function of decomposing water into hydrogen and oxygen using the electric power obtained by the power generation means, and hydrogen generated thereby or hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit. An electrolysis cell having a function of a fuel cell that obtains electric power by using a battery. As a more specific electrolysis cell, the above-described electrolysis cell can be mentioned.

  Hereinafter, the present invention will be specifically described with reference to examples. FIG. 5 is an example of the power generation system 101 of the present invention. As shown in FIG. 5, a power generation system 101 of the present invention in this embodiment includes a gyromill (vertical axis type) wind power generator 102 as a power generation means, a storage battery 103, a water electrolysis tank 104, a hydrogen cylinder. 105, a fuel cell 106, a heating means 107, and a power control means 108. In FIG. 5, reference numeral 109 denotes a backup hydrogen cylinder. Reference numeral 110 denotes a temperature measuring means. Reference numeral 111 denotes a power load. Reference numerals 112 to 116 denote wirings. Reference numerals 117 to 126 denote gas pipes. 127 indicates a container containing a desiccant. Reference numeral 128 denotes a fuel cutoff valve. Reference numeral 129 denotes a pressure regulator. Reference numeral 130 denotes a reverse valve or pressure control means. 131 denotes a rectifier. Reference numeral 132 denotes a converter. Reference numeral 133 denotes an AC converter. Reference numeral 134 denotes a dummy load. Reference numerals 135 to 140 denote wirings.

  As a wind power generator, a gyro mill (vertical shaft type) wind power generator (rated 2kW) manufactured by Energy Product Co., Ltd. was used. The output voltage of this windmill is AC36V to AC180V, cut-in starts at a wind speed of 3.0m / s, and cuts out at a wind speed of 15.0m / s. The rated wind speed is 12.0m / s, and the blade rotation speed at the time of rating is 183rpm and the maximum blade rotation speed is 344rpm. This gyromill type (vertical shaft type) wind turbine is equipped with a permanent magnet type multi-pole synchronous generator, and the controller uses an air-driven disc brake. The total length of the windmill pole is 2,000 mm, the diameter is 972 mm, and the blade length is 2,000 mm. A rectifier that rectifies the electric power obtained from the windmill is built in the converter. As the storage battery 103, a lead storage battery EB65 manufactured by Nippon Battery Co., Ltd. (rated 12V, 65A · h, used in series in 4 units) was used. As an AC converter, S1500 manufactured by Denryo Corporation was used. In addition, a water electrolysis hydrogen gas generator rated electrolysis current 50 A (hydrogen generation flow rate 200 NL / h, hydrogen gas pressure resistance 0.6 MPa) manufactured by Suga Test Instruments Co., Ltd. was used as the water electrolysis tank 104. The system power supply of this water electrolyzer is AC100V and is input from an AC converter. On the other hand, the input voltage of electrolytic power is DC48V, and the power is directly input from the storage battery. As the pressure regulator 129, a pressure regulator manufactured by Nihon Tanaka Co., Ltd. with a secondary gauge pressure of 0.15 MPa was used, and as a reverse valve 130, an LCM gas / vacuum reverse valve manufactured by Yamamoto Sangyo Co., Ltd. was used. As the hydrogen cylinder 105, three secondary pressure vessels 0.1 MPa made of steel plate manufactured by Hokkaido Air Water Co., Ltd. were used. As a hydrogen cylinder 109 for backup, one high-pressure cylinder 15 MPa made by Hokkaido Air Water Co., Ltd. was used. This backup hydrogen cylinder can be replaced. As the fuel cell 106, a fuel cell FC-BOX for pure hydrogen (rated 850 W) manufactured by EBARA Ballard Co., Ltd. was used. All but the wind generators were installed in an insulated house (3600 x 1800).

  The electric power generated by the wind power generator 102 is converted into a DC voltage of 58 V to 188 V through the rectifier 131 and converted into a DC voltage of 48 V by the converter 132. The electric power is stored in the storage battery 103 having a rated voltage of 48V. The control unit 108 receives a signal that detects the voltage of the storage battery, the required power of the power load 111, and the gas pressure of the hydrogen gas pipe, and based on the signal, controls a power source that obtains power from the storage battery or the fuel cell 106, and performs AC conversion. The power supplied to the system of the water electrolysis tank 104 via the condenser 133, the power supplied to the power load, the power supplied to the dummy load 134, or the electrolysis power of the water electrolysis tank 104 not via the AC converter 133 is controlled. Examples of the control method include the following.

  First, power input from the wind power generator 102 to the storage battery 103 is always possible when the wind is blowing. When the voltage of the storage battery is less than 40V, the fuel cell 106 is activated and power is supplied to the power load 111. Next, when the voltage of the storage battery is 40 V or more and less than 44 V, power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load 111. At this time, power is not supplied from the storage battery to the water electrolysis tank. When the power supplied from the wind power generator exceeds the power supplied from the storage battery to the power load, the storage battery voltage is 48 V or higher, and the pressure of the gas pipe 118 is less than 0.6 MPa, which is the pressure limit of the water electrolysis tank, In addition to supplying power from the storage battery to the power load, it also supplies power to the water electrolyzer to generate hydrogen. At this time, if the voltage of the storage battery becomes less than 44V, the power supply from the storage battery to the water electrolyzer is stopped again. Further, when the voltage of the storage battery is 48 V or more and the pressure of the gas pipe 118 is 0.6 MPa or more, which is the pressure limit of the water electrolysis tank, power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load and the dummy load 134 is supplied.

  Below, when the voltage value of the storage battery is less than 40V, power is generated by the fuel cell and the power is supplied to the power load or the heating means (case 1), and the voltage value of the storage battery is 44V or more and less than 48V In this case, a description will be given of an example (case 2) in which power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load, hydrogen is generated in the water electrolysis tank, and hydrogen is stored in the hydrogen cylinder.

Case 1 (case in which when the storage battery voltage value is less than 40V, power is generated by the fuel cell and the power is supplied to the power load or the heating means)
When the terminal voltage of the storage battery was 38V, the fuel cell was operated and power was sent to the load, and power was supplied from the windmill to the storage battery. When the average power load is 699.6W, when power is supplied from the fuel cell to the load, the average hydrogen consumption flow rate at that time is 9.63NL / min, and the power generation efficiency (load energy / higher heating value of consumed hydrogen) is 34.2%. there were.

Case 2 (When the voltage value of the storage battery was 44V or more and less than 48, power was supplied from the storage battery to the power load, and hydrogen was generated in the water electrolysis tank, and the hydrogen was stored in the hydrogen cylinder. Example)
When the battery terminal voltage is 46.9V, the hydrogen pressure of the cylinder is 0.174MPa, and the average power load from the battery to the outside is 652W, power is supplied from the battery to the load and water electrolysis is performed with an electrolysis current of 20.3A (599W) It was. As a result, hydrogen was generated at an average flow rate of 1.35 NL / min, and the hydrogen conversion efficiency (higher heating value of the generated hydrogen / the amount of power input from the battery to the water electrolyzer) was 48.0%, and the electrolysis current efficiency was 96.0%. It was. The battery terminal voltage after 20 minutes was 44.3V.

  The power generation system of the present invention can be suitably used as a power source for dairy farmers and a power source in a remote place where there is no commercial power, such as a mountain hut.

Block diagram showing the concept of the present invention External view showing an example of a fuel cell External view showing an example of a fuel cell that also functions as a water electrolyzer The block diagram which shows the concept of this invention at the time of using the fuel cell which also has the function of a water electrolyzer The block diagram which shows the electric power generation system of the Example of this invention.

Explanation of symbols

DESCRIPTION OF SYMBOLS 1 Power generation system 2 Power generation means 3 Storage battery 4 Water electrolysis tank 5 Hydrogen storage part 6 Fuel cell 7 Heating means 8 Electric power control means 9 Backup hydrogen storage part 10 Temperature measurement means 11 Electric power load 12-16 Wiring 17-26 Gas piping 27 Container 28 containing desiccant Fuel shut-off valve 29 Pressure regulator 30 Reverse support valve or pressure control means 31 Fuel cell 32 Electrolyte 33 Catalyst layer 34 Gas diffusion layer 35 Separator 36 Hydrogen supply port 37 Oxygen supply port 38 Current collector plates 45 and 46 Liquid separator 47 Float 48 Solenoid valve 49 Compressor 50 Container 51 containing desiccant Hydrogen storage unit 52 Water storage tank 53 Circulation pump 54 Pump 55 Three-way solenoid valve 56 Three-way solenoid valve 57 Solenoid valve 58 Solenoid valve 101 Power generation system of the present invention Example 102 Gyromill (vertical shaft type) wind power generator 103 Storage battery 104 Hydroelectric Tank 105 Hydrogen cylinder 106 Fuel cell 107 Heating means 108 Electric power control means 109 Backup hydrogen cylinder 110 Temperature measuring means 111 Electric power loads 112 to 116 Wiring 117 to 126 Gas pipe 127 Container containing desiccant 128 Fuel shutoff valve 129 Pressure regulator 130 Reverse valve or pressure control means 131 Rectifier 132 Converter 133 AC converter 134 Dummy loads 135-140 Wiring

Claims (8)

Power generation means by wind power and / or solar power, and
A storage battery for storing the power obtained by the power generation means;
A water electrolyzer for decomposing water into hydrogen and oxygen using the electric power obtained by the power generation means;
A hydrogen storage unit for storing hydrogen generated in the water electrolyzer;
A fuel cell for obtaining electric power using hydrogen generated in the water electrolyzer or hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit;
Power consumption means for consuming the power obtained by the power generation means and the fuel cell;
Power control means for controlling the power obtained by the power generation means, the power stored in the storage battery, and the power supply destination obtained by the fuel cell;
Equipped with,
While accumulating and using the power obtained by the power generation means in a storage battery,
Using the electric power stored in the storage battery or the electric power obtained by the power generation means, the water in the water electrolysis tank is decomposed into hydrogen and oxygen,
Storing hydrogen generated in the water electrolyzer in the hydrogen storage unit;
The fuel cell obtains electric power using hydrogen generated in the water electrolyzer, or hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit,
The power control means controls the power supplied to the power load and the power consumption means ;
A power generation system,
The power consuming means is a heating means for heating either or both of the water electrolyzer or the fuel cell, or a dummy load for consuming surplus power,
The power generation system further includes:
Voltage value measuring means for measuring a voltage value of electric power stored in the storage battery;
Comprising hydrogen gas pressure measuring means for measuring the hydrogen gas pressure in the hydrogen storage unit,
The power control means includes
If the voltage value of the storage battery measured by the voltage value measuring means is less than a first set value, power is generated by the fuel cell, and power is supplied to the power load or the power consuming means,
When the voltage value of the storage battery measured by the voltage value measuring means is not less than the first set value and less than the second set value, power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load or the power consuming means. ,
The voltage value of the storage battery measured by the voltage value measuring means is not less than the second set value, and the hydrogen gas pressure in the hydrogen storage unit measured by the hydrogen gas pressure measuring means is less than a predetermined value. In some cases, power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load or the power consuming means, and further, hydrogen is generated in the water electrolyzer using the power stored in the storage battery by the power generation means, and the hydrogen is Storing in the hydrogen storage unit,
The voltage value of the storage battery measured by the voltage value measuring means is not less than the second set value, and the hydrogen gas pressure in the hydrogen storage part measured by the hydrogen gas pressure measuring means is not less than a predetermined value. In this case, the power generation system controls the power so that the power stored in the storage battery by the power generation means is supplied to the power consumption means .
Power generation system according to the power consumption unit, according to claim 1 one or both of the water electrolyzer or a fuel cell is a heating means for heating.
The power generation system according to claim 1, further comprising a replaceable backup hydrogen storage unit capable of supplying hydrogen to the fuel cell.
Further comprising a temperature measuring means for measuring the temperature of water in the water electrolyzer;
The power generation system according to claim 2 , wherein the power control unit supplies power to the heating unit when the temperature measured by the temperature measurement unit falls below a predetermined temperature.
The power control means includes
When the voltage value of the storage battery measured by the voltage value measuring means is less than a predetermined value, power is generated by the fuel cell using hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit, and power is supplied to the storage battery. The power generation system according to claim 1, which is controlled to be supplied.
A backup hydrogen storage unit capable of supplying hydrogen to the fuel cell;
When the voltage value of the storage battery measured by the voltage value measuring means is less than a predetermined amount, the hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit is given priority to the fuel cell over the hydrogen stored in the backup hydrogen storage unit. The power generation system according to claim 1, further comprising means for supplying.
Power generation means by wind power and / or solar power, and
A storage battery for storing the power obtained by the power generation means;
A water electrolyzer for decomposing water into hydrogen and oxygen using the electric power obtained by the power generation means;
A hydrogen storage unit for storing hydrogen generated in the water electrolyzer;
A fuel cell for obtaining electric power using hydrogen generated in the water electrolyzer or hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit;
Power consumption means for consuming the power obtained by the power generation means and the fuel cell;
Power control means for controlling the power obtained by the power generation means, the power stored in the storage battery, and the power supply destination obtained by the fuel cell;
Comprising
While accumulating and using the power obtained by the power generation means in a storage battery,
Using the electric power stored in the storage battery or the electric power obtained by the power generation means, the water in the water electrolysis tank is decomposed into hydrogen and oxygen,
Storing hydrogen generated in the water electrolyzer in the hydrogen storage unit;
The fuel cell obtains electric power using hydrogen generated in the water electrolyzer, or hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit,
The power control means controls the power supplied to the power load and the power consumption means;
A power generation system,
The power consuming means is a heating means for heating either or both of the water electrolyzer or the fuel cell, or a dummy load for consuming surplus power,
The power generation system further includes:
Voltage value measuring means for measuring a voltage value of electric power stored in the storage battery;
Comprising hydrogen gas pressure measuring means for measuring the hydrogen gas pressure in the hydrogen storage unit,
The power control means includes
If the voltage value of the storage battery measured by the voltage value measuring means is less than a first set value, power is generated by the fuel cell, and power is supplied to the power load or the power consuming means ,
When the voltage value of the storage battery measured by the voltage value measuring means is not less than the first set value and less than the second set value, power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load or the power consuming means . , when the hydrogen gas pressure in the second setting value reaches a third predetermined value greater than, and in the hydrogen storage unit, which is measured by the hydrogen gas pressure measuring means by said power generating means it is less than a predetermined value , the power supply from the storage battery to the power load, further to generate hydrogen in the water electrolysis cell, and controls the power of the hydrogen to be stored in the hydrogen storage unit, as a result, the voltage of the storage battery If it becomes less than the second set value, or when the hydrogen gas pressure in the hydrogen storage unit reaches a predetermined value or more, although power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load, the water electrolyzer Of power to Stopping feeding, the is the battery by the generator means charging, the voltage becomes higher again the third set value, and when the hydrogen gas pressure in the hydrogen storage unit is less than the predetermined value, the battery while supplying power to the power load from, resumes the supply of power to the water electrolyzer, the voltage of the battery becomes more than the third set value, and the hydrogen gas pressure in the hydrogen storage unit If it is less than the predetermined value, the power generation system for controlling supplying electric power to be accumulated into the battery by the power generation unit to the power unit.
Power generation means by wind power and / or solar power, and
A storage battery for storing the power obtained by the power generation means;
Having water electrolysis function of decomposing water into hydrogen and oxygen using the electric power obtained by the power generation means,
And an electrolysis cell having a function of a fuel cell that obtains electric power using hydrogen generated thereby or hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit;
A hydrogen storage unit for storing hydrogen generated when the electrolysis cell acquires power; and
Power consumption means for consuming the power obtained by the power generation means and the fuel cell;
Power control means for controlling the power obtained by the power generation means, the power stored in the storage battery, and the power supply destination obtained by the electrolysis cell;
Equipped with,
While accumulating and using the power obtained by the power generation means in a storage battery,
Using the power stored in the storage battery or the power obtained by the power generation means, the water in the electrolysis cell is decomposed into hydrogen and oxygen,
Storing hydrogen generated in the electrolytic cell in the hydrogen storage unit;
Using the generated hydrogen or the hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage unit to obtain electric power,
The power control means controls the power supplied to the power load and the power consumption means ;
A power generation system,
The power consuming means is a heating means for heating either or both of the water electrolyzer or the fuel cell, or a dummy load for consuming surplus power,
The power generation system further includes:
Voltage value measuring means for measuring a voltage value of electric power stored in the storage battery;
Comprising hydrogen gas pressure measuring means for measuring the hydrogen gas pressure in the hydrogen storage unit,
The power control means includes
When the voltage value of the storage battery measured by the voltage value measuring means is less than a first set value, power is generated in the electrolysis cell, and power is supplied to the power load or the power consuming means,
When the voltage value of the storage battery measured by the voltage value measuring means is not less than the first set value and less than the second set value, power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load or the power consuming means. ,
The voltage value of the storage battery measured by the voltage value measuring means is not less than the second set value, and the hydrogen gas pressure in the hydrogen storage unit measured by the hydrogen gas pressure measuring means is less than a predetermined value. In some cases, power is supplied from the storage battery to the power load or the power consuming means, and further, hydrogen is generated in the water electrolyzer using the power stored in the storage battery by the power generation means, and the hydrogen is Storing in the hydrogen storage unit,
The voltage value of the storage battery measured by the voltage value measuring means is not less than the second set value, and the hydrogen gas pressure in the hydrogen storage part measured by the hydrogen gas pressure measuring means is not less than a predetermined value. In this case, the power generation system controls the power so that the power stored in the storage battery by the power generation means is supplied to the power consumption means .

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