In a parallel development Sulzer Hexis of Switzerland is working on solid oxide cells having a similar output. The performance of a small PEM cell has been demonstrated successfully in island operation in a house near Leipzig. The general case, however, will be that the house remains connected to the electric grid. The cell will generate the base heat load, with peak demands covered in the usual way by means of an integrated burner. If there is surplus electrical power, it is sold to the utility.
Extra demand is satisfied from the grid.
While so far gas and electrical installations were neatly separated, the small fuel cell as a gas device producing electricity suddenly provides a hitherto missing link that brings them together. This is one consequence of the new technology. Much more important will be the decentralizing effect it will have on the general structure of the energy supply. Utilities will no longer be the provider and the house owner the customer. Rather they will have to deal with a great number of partners who will act either as buyers or sellers of electrical energy, depending on their own demand.