SOFCNET: Thematic Network on Solid Oxide Fuel Cell Technology

• Research unit: EU RFP
• Project number: 02.0152-1

Key words (English)

Economic Aspects; Energy Saving; Forecasting; Meteorology; Social Aspects

Alternative project number (English)

EU project number: ENG2-CT-2002-20652

Research programs (English)

EU-programme: 5. Frame Research Programme - 1.4b.1 Cleaner energy systems, including renewables

Short description (English)

See abstract

Further information (English)

Full name of research-institution/enterprise:
Eidg. Materialprüfungs- und Forschungsanstalt EMPA
Hochleistungskeramik

Abstract (English)

This proposal suggests the establishment of the thematic network SOFCNET. The objective of SOFCNET is the support and acceleration of European industrial development. By bringing together all types (from universities to end users) of SOFC involved organisations in Europe, the network promotes knowledge exchange, abetter understanding of industrial needs and collaboration, particularly on critical issues for the commercialisation of SOFC systems. Further the SOFCNET should result in a more efficient use of EU and national RTD resources and contribute to the realisation of a critical RTD mass for solving European energy related problems. Additionally, a competitive European SOFC industry shall have a positive influence on employment.

The objective of SOFCNET project is the support and acceleration of European industrial development. Ultimately, this should accelerate the introduction of efficient and environmentally clean conversion devices into the European energy supply. Early implementation of SOFC based system for residential and industrial CHP and for auxiliary power supplies for transport applications, increases the contribution of this technology to the realisation of the EU (rational use of energy) and Kyoto objectives on reducing CHG and other polluting emissions. Further, the network should effectuate in a more efficient use of European and national RTD resources and contribute to the realisation of a critical RTD mass for solving European energy related problems. The network is a first step (pre-pilot) towards the establishment of a European Research Area (ERA). SOFCNET has to increase the competitive strength of the European SOFC industry and through that have a positive effect on European employment.

References in databases (English)

Swiss Database: Euro-DB of the
State Secretariat for Education and Research
Hallwylstrasse 4
CH-3003 Berne, Switzerland
Tel. [phone]
Swiss Project-Number: 02.0152-1