Tokyo Gas Co., along with Rinnai Corporation and two other partner companies have begun field trials of a solid-oxide-type fuel cell (SOFC) for use in residential settings.

A solid oxide fuel cells are electrochemical conversion devices that produces electricity directly from oxidizing a fuel. Fuel cells are characterized by their electrolyte material and, as the name implies, the SOFC has a solid oxide, or ceramic, electrolyte. Advantages of this class of fuel cells include high efficiencies, long term stability, fuel flexibility, low emissions, and cost.

Compared with the polymer-electrolyte fuel cells currently being sold, the next-generation SOFCs promise to be even more helpful at reducing energy consumption and carbon dioxide emissions. The goal is to have commercial versions ready for marketing in 2014-15.

The field trials will test a proprietary cell stack that can provide both electricity and hot water for households. Model homes are being operated in Yokohama and Tokyo, and the number of test locations will be increased to six in fiscal 2010.

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