The ClearEdge ClearEdge5 is a combined heat and power (CHP) energy system based on fuel cell technology. This technology has demonstrated superior efficiency for years in industrial plants, universities, hotels and hospitals. ClearEdge Power is now making it available on a small commercial and residential scale. The ClearEdge5 is a compact system which efficiently converts natural gas or propane into both electricity and heat.
How does it work?
The ClearEdge5 consists of three core components modularly designed for ease of installation and maintenance. The Fuel Processor converts natural gas into ultra-clean hydrogen through a catalytic process, as opposed to burning the natural gas, which dramatically reduces pollutants. The hydrogen is processed through a Fuel Cell Stack, creating direct current (DC) power and heat. The Power Conditioning Unit converts the DC electricity into alternating current (AC), which then ties directly to the main electrical panel, providing steady continuous power for your electricity needs. The heat produced by the fuel cell is moved to the building through a heat exchanger supplying a continuous source of heating for hot water or space heating.
What are the best uses for the ClearEdge5?
The ClearEdge5 is scaled for most small businesses and large homes and small commercial operations where the energy load significantly exceeds the baseline utility allowance. The ClearEdge5 generates around 43MWh annually – optimal for larger homes (4,000 sq. ft. or more), especially if pools, spas and radiant floor heating are in the plans. It’s also a convenient source of back-up power for critical loads, such as light, refrigerator/freezers, electronics/computers and heating systems. Deploying the system’s heat energy efficiently to a home or business’ hot water application displaces the electricity or gas otherwise used to create that heat, further reducing your energy bill.
What can the ClearEdge5 do for me?
The ClearEdge5 can reduce your energy cost significantly. Operating with much higher efficiency than grid electricity and conventional heating, the ClearEdge5 consumes about 40% less fuel than the status quo. This enables you to generate your own electricity at about 6 cents per kWh, quite a drop from utility rates that are as high as 45 cents. The ClearEdge5 gives you the security of having a backup if the grid goes down. Finally, by using the waste heat to avoid burning fuel for heating, the CO2 emissions from your energy use are as much as 40% less.
How do you install the ClearEdge5?
The ClearEdge5 is designed and built to fit in either an interior mechanical room or outside a home or facility – running quietly in the background 24/7. Connected to the utility grid, using standard fittings and tools, the ClearEdge5 easily integrates with existing electrical systems and is compliant with utility interconnection requirements. In the event of grid interruption. the system automatically switches to operate in a grid-independent mode to provide backup power to essential circuits while the grid is down. The ClearEdge5 is a “smart” web-connected system, with centralized command and control capabilities, enabling 24/7 monitoring and multiple unit operation at a site.
How much does the ClearEdge5 cost?
The list price for the ClearEdge5 is comparable to residential solar PV systems on a dollar per watt-installed basis. A major advantage over solar, the ClearEdge5 generates ten times more energy than the same size solar installation. For the same capital investment, the ClearEdge5 gives you 90 MWh of annual combined electricity and heat, compared to approximately 8MWh generated by a 5kW solar system. Operating costs for the ClearEdge5 are as low as 6.0¢ per kWh based on $1.20 per therm for natural gas, assuming full electrical and heat utilization. The purchase price of the ClearEdge5 also includes a five-year EnergyPlus™ Service Agreement covering all installation, parts and maintenance.
What incentives are available for the ClearEdge5?
The ClearEdge5 is eligible for substantial incentives and rebates: both California SGIP reimbursement and Federal Tax Credits will significantly reduce the net capital cost to the customer. Unlike the intermittent nature of solar PV the ClearEdge5 provides continuous, reliable energy at the point of use, operating 24/7. In addition, the ClearEdge5 electricity receives ‘net-metering’ credit for any excess electricity generated, but not used, by putting it on the utility grid.
What are the environmental benefits of the ClearEdge5?
Because the ClearEdge5 generates electricity and heat on site very efficiently, the flameless conversion of hydrocarbon fuels into energy is substantially cleaner than comparable grid-connected systems. The ClearEdge5 provides a significant net reduction in CO2 – about one-third lighter footprint for the energy produced. The system also significantly reduces other harmful emissions produced by conventional power generation sources. The lower carbon footprint supports the goals of California’s Global Warming Solutions Act (AB32) and other state initiatives to reduce climate change impacts.
Can I use the ClearEdge5 as a backup generator?
The intent of the ClearEdge5 is to provide your base and load power, supplementing energy use from a major power grid, not to replace it completely. In the event of a power outage, the unit will disconnect from the grid. If the customer chooses, the site can be configured for the ClearEdge5 to power essential circuits to cover important customer needs, such as lighting, a wine cooler or refrigerator.
