A Review of Fuel Cell to Distribution Network Interface Using D-FACTS: Technical Challenges and Interconnection Trends

Abstract

Today, the worldwide public interest in reducing power quality issues and greenhouse gas emissions is a key driver to study fuel cells (FCs) connected to distribution network systems (DNs) based on distributed flexible alternating-current transmission systems (D-FACTS). DNs will need to develop a better performance on Power Quality (PQ) while providing a more efficient energy technology. This study reviewed in-depth the interface of DN to FC systems. By focusing on the FC interface and the associated technical challenges, this review may help reduce the risk of DNs, minimizing the consumption of fossil fuels for power generation, lowering the emission of hazardous gases while dramatically increasing electrical power loads, improving PQ and stability. Besides, the study deliberated aspects of FC power technology with DNs interfacing based on D-FACTS. Specifically, the discussion encompassed the configuration structures of FC power technology and DNs connection based on D-FACTS, technical challenges of DNs, and its trends to determine the diagnosis, integration, and optimization for FC power technology.