Energy supply device

Abstract

To provide a system that produces and stores hydrogen by using only a natural energy power generation device, thereby supplying power even in emergency.SOLUTION: An energy supply device 2 comprises: a power generation device 10 that generates power by natural energy; a hydrogen production device 20 that receives power from the power generation device 10, and produces at least hydrogen; and a supply control device 30 that supplies hydrogen produce by the hydrogen production device 20. The supply control device 30 is configured to control the supply of hydrogen by the hydrogen production device 20 depending on a power generation state of the power generation device 10 or a demand state of a supply destination of hydrogen. Preferably, the supply control device 30 is configured to supply hydrogen to the larger number of supply destinations by restricting the supply amount of hydrogen at one time than a first mode in a normal state in a second mode in emergency.SELECTED DRAWING: Figure 1

Description

Technical Field

[0001] The present disclosure relates to an energy supply device.

Background Art

[0002] Currently, hydrogen is in the spotlight as an energy source that does not emit carbon dioxide. Toward the popularization of fuel cell vehicles using hydrogen, technological development and infrastructure building are being promoted. In addition, due to recent technological innovations, miniaturization of hydrogen production devices that can produce, compress, and store hydrogen to a degree that can be loaded onto trucks has been progressing.

[0003] The hydrogen production device is operated by the electric power generated by a natural energy power generation device, and the hydrogen thus produced is called green hydrogen. In order to achieve carbon neutrality, it is important to increase the ratio of green hydrogen.

[0004] For example, Japanese Patent No. 5866079 (Patent Document 1) discloses a fuel cell power generation device that produces, compresses, and stores hydrogen and generates electricity using hydrogen. The electric power required to produce hydrogen uses at least one of the power grid and a natural energy power generation device.

[0005] Also, for example, Japanese Patent No. 6165972 (Patent Document 2) describes an example regarding hydrogen production in a cold region using a natural energy power generation device, and describes a control method for operating safely so that pipes and the like do not burst.

Prior Art Documents

Patent Documents

[0006]

Patent Document 1

Patent Document 2

Summary of the Invention

[0007] Japanese Patent Publication No. 5866079 (Patent Document 1) describes a method for utilizing a renewable energy power generation device for hydrogen production, compression, and storage. It states that under normal conditions, power is supplied to the load from the power grid, and in the event of an abnormality, the stored hydrogen is used to power the load with electricity generated by a fuel cell power generation device. Furthermore, in the event of an abnormality, the electricity generated by the renewable energy power generation device is stored in a battery and also supplied to the load. It should be noted that Japanese Patent Publication No. 5866079 (Patent Document 1) assumes the existence of a power grid.

[0008] On the other hand, Japanese Patent Publication No. 6165972 (Patent Document 2) describes the production and storage of hydrogen using only renewable energy power generation equipment, and includes control methods and safety measures for safely shutting down the system in the event of an abnormality. However, it does not describe methods for supplying hydrogen and electricity in the event of an abnormality. If there is no power grid and power generation and hydrogen production are carried out using only renewable energy, supplying hydrogen or electricity to recipients only as much as they request would quickly deplete the stored electricity or hydrogen, potentially preventing supply to recipients in the event of a disaster or other abnormality. In the event of an abnormality, it is desirable to be able to distribute the limited hydrogen or electricity to as many people as possible.

[0009] Therefore, the purpose of this disclosure is to provide a system that supplies hydrogen to a larger number of recipients in an emergency, using only renewable energy power generation equipment for hydrogen production. [Means for solving the problem]

[0010] This disclosure relates to an energy supply system. The energy supply system comprises a power generation device that generates electricity using renewable energy, a hydrogen production device that receives electricity from the power generation device and produces and stores hydrogen, and a supply control device that supplies the hydrogen produced by the hydrogen production device. The supply control device controls the supply of hydrogen by the hydrogen production device according to the power generation status of the power generation device or the supply and demand status of the hydrogen supply destination. [Effects of the Invention]

[0011] According to the energy supply device of this disclosure, hydrogen is produced solely by a renewable energy power generation device, and the supply of hydrogen is controlled according to the power generation status of the power generation device or the supply and demand situation of the hydrogen recipient. Therefore, hydrogen can be supplied to a larger number of recipients during times of power shortage or emergencies such as disasters. [Brief explanation of the drawing]

[0012] [Figure 1] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the energy supply device according to Embodiment 1. [Figure 2] This flowchart explains the mode switching control between normal and disaster situations. [Figure 3] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the energy supply device according to Embodiment 2. [Figure 4] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the energy supply device according to Embodiment 3. [Figure 5] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the energy supply device according to Embodiment 4. [Figure 6] This is a block diagram showing the configuration of the energy supply device according to Embodiment 5. [Figure 7] This is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the energy supply device according to Embodiment 5. [Figure 8] This is a side view of a container, which is an example of a configuration for a renewable energy power generation system. [Modes for carrying out the invention]

[0013] Hereinafter, embodiments of the present invention will be described with reference to the drawings. In the following drawings, the same or corresponding parts are denoted by the same reference numerals, and the description thereof will not be repeated.

[0014] [Embodiment 1] FIG. 1 is a block diagram showing the configuration of an energy supply device according to Embodiment 1.

[0015] The energy system 1 shown in FIG. 1 is composed of an energy supply device 2, a fuel cell 3, and a load 4.

[0016] The energy supply device 2 includes a power generation device 10 that generates power using natural energy, a hydrogen production device 20 that receives power from the power generation device 10 and produces and stores hydrogen, and a supply control device 30 that supplies the hydrogen produced by the hydrogen production device 20.

[0017] The power generation device 10 includes a natural energy power generation device 11, a storage battery 16 that stores the power generated by the natural energy power generation device 11, and an inverter 18. The hydrogen production device 20 includes a hydrogen generation device 21 that generates hydrogen using the power generated by the natural energy power generation device, a hydrogen compressor 22 that compresses the hydrogen generated by the hydrogen generation device 21, and a hydrogen storage device 23 that stores the hydrogen compressed by the hydrogen compressor 22. The hydrogen generation device 21 can generate hydrogen by, for example, electrolyzing water. Also, the energy supply device 2 does not necessarily include the hydrogen compressor 22 or the hydrogen storage device 23. The hydrogen generation device 21 may directly supply hydrogen to the fuel cell 3 or the like without passing through the hydrogen compressor 22 or the hydrogen storage device 23, as shown by the dashed arrow in FIG. 1.

[0018] The power generation device 10 is configured to supply power from the inverter 18 to the hydrogen production device 20 and the load 4.

[0019] (Normal operation) The amount of electricity required for hydrogen production and storage, PH, is the sum of the electricity required by the hydrogen generator 21 to produce hydrogen, the electricity required by the hydrogen compressor 22 to compress hydrogen, and the electricity required by the hydrogen storage device 23 to store hydrogen, P3. In other words, the amount of electricity required for hydrogen production and storage, PH = P1 + P2 + P3. The amount of electricity, PH, varies depending on the scale of the hydrogen production device 20.

[0020] The amount of electricity P that must be generated by the renewable energy power generation device 11 is the sum of this amount and the amount of electricity PL used at load 4. In other words, P = PH + PL.

[0021] In accordance with the amount of electricity generated P, the renewable energy power generation device 11 consists of one of the following: solar power generation, wind power generation, or hydropower generation, or a combination of several of these.

[0022] The renewable energy power generation device 11 has an unstable power output. Therefore, if the renewable energy power generation device 11 is directly connected to the hydrogen production device 20, the operation of the hydrogen production device 20 may become intermittent, potentially causing equipment failure. For this reason, electricity stored in the battery 16 is used to ensure a stable power supply.

[0023] The hydrogen generated and stored in the energy supply device 2 is supplied to a stationary or mobile fuel cell 3, and the electricity generated by the fuel cell 3 is supplied to the load 4. Examples of mobile fuel cells 3 and loads 4 include fuel cell vehicles.

[0024] Battery 16 loses its stored energy over time due to natural discharge. On the other hand, hydrogen does not naturally release energy in a sealed state, so its stored amount does not decrease even when stored for a long period of time. Therefore, hydrogen can be used for long-term power storage that spans seasons or years.

[0025] Furthermore, while the amount of energy stored in a battery decreases over time due to ambient temperature, electrode plate corrosion, etc., the amount of hydrogen stored does not decrease in a sealed state. Therefore, by storing hydrogen in a hydrogen storage device 23 such as a cylinder, energy can be stored for a long period of time. In this case, hydrogen can be used to generate electricity in a fuel cell as needed.

[0026] Furthermore, the electricity required to supply hydrogen from the energy supply device 2 to the fuel cell power generation device and fuel cell vehicle can be supplied by the renewable energy power generation device 11.

[0027] If the load is a typical electrical device, power may be supplied from the inverter 18 while simultaneously supplying power to the hydrogen production device 20 to generate and store hydrogen.

[0028] Since the power PH consumed by the hydrogen production device 20 is predictable, the operating time can be predicted from the capacity of the storage battery 16. However, since the power PL of the load 4 varies depending on the connected device, it is necessary to monitor the capacity of the storage battery 16. The supply control device 30 sets a first specified value E1 for the remaining capacity of the storage battery 16 and stops the hydrogen production device 20 when it falls below that value.

[0029] Even when supplying power to a typical electrical equipment load 4, the power supply control device 30 stops supplying power to load 4 when the remaining capacity of the storage battery 16 falls below the second specified value E2.

[0030] Subsequently, when the battery 16 begins to be charged by the renewable energy power generation device 11, the supply control device 30 continues to shut off the power supply to the hydrogen production device 20 and the general electrical equipment load 4 until the remaining capacity of the battery 16 exceeds the first specified value E1.

[0031] (Actions taken in the event of a disaster, etc.) The supply control device 30 is configured to be switchable between a first mode and a second mode as operating modes. In the second mode, the supply control device 30 is configured to limit the amount of hydrogen supplied per cycle more than in the first mode.

[0032] The supply control device 30 is configured to supply hydrogen in an amount specified to the recipient in the first mode, and to supply hydrogen in a predetermined amount, with a predetermined upper limit for the amount supplied per instance, in the second mode.

[0033] The supply control device 30 is configured to control the supply of electricity generated by the power generator 10, in addition to the supply of hydrogen. In the second mode, the supply control device 30 is configured to limit the amount of electricity supplied per instance more than in the first mode.

[0034] The power supply control device 30 is configured to select a first mode under normal circumstances and a second mode in the event of a disaster. Alternatively, the first mode may be selected under normal circumstances, and the second mode may be selected when there is a shortage of power generation from renewable energy sources.

[0035] The power supply control device 30 is configured to supply an amount of power according to the specified amount of power designated by the recipient in the first mode, and to supply power with a predetermined amount of power as the upper limit of the amount of power supplied per instance in the second mode.

[0036] Figure 2 is a flowchart illustrating mode switching control during normal and disaster situations. First, in step S1, the supply control device 30 determines whether a disaster has occurred or whether the amount of electricity generated from natural energy is insufficient. For example, a user or administrator can determine whether a disaster has occurred or whether there is a shortage of electricity by directly operating the control unit to provide the supply control device 30 with an input signal indicating a disaster or insufficient electricity generation, or by providing the supply control device 30 with an input signal indicating a disaster via a mobile phone or internet connection. Alternatively, by equipping the device with a vibration sensor to simulate an earthquake, the supply control device 30 may automatically determine that a disaster has occurred by sensing a predetermined vibration with the vibration sensor, without requiring direct or remote operation.

[0037] If it is determined that no disaster has occurred or that there is no shortage of power generation (NO in S1), the supply control device 30 sets the operating mode to the first mode in step S2. In the first mode, the supply control device 30 sets the upper limit of the amount of hydrogen to be supplied to H1 in step S3. The upper limit H1 is determined based on, for example, the amount of hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage device 23 or the pressure of the hydrogen gas. Furthermore, in step S4, the supply control device 30 sets the upper limit of the amount of electricity to be supplied to W1. The upper limit W1 is determined based on, for example, the remaining capacity of the electricity charged in the battery 16. Then, in step S5, the supply control device 30 supplies hydrogen or electricity to the fuel cell 3 or load 4 within a range that does not exceed the upper limit set in step S3 or step S4. Note that since the amount of hydrogen stored or the remaining capacity of the battery may increase due to natural energy, the upper limits H1 and W1 may be updated each time there is a request for hydrogen or electricity supply, even when set to the first mode.

[0038] On the other hand, if a disaster occurs or if it is determined that the amount of power generated is insufficient (YES in S1), the supply control device 30 sets the operating mode to the second mode in step S6. In the second mode, the supply control device 30 sets the upper limit of the amount of hydrogen supplied per instance to H2 in step S7. The upper limit H2 is smaller than the upper limit H1 determined in step S3, thereby allowing more hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage device 23 to be supplied to more recipients. Furthermore, the supply control device 30 sets the upper limit of the amount of electricity supplied to W2 in step S8. The upper limit H2 is smaller than the upper limit H1 determined in step S3, thereby allowing more electricity charged in the battery 16 to be supplied to more recipients. Then, in step S9, the supply control device 30 supplies hydrogen or electricity to the fuel cell 3 or load 4 within a range that does not exceed the upper limit set in step S7 or step S8.

[0039] Thus, in the second mode, which is selected during disasters, upper limits are set for the amount of hydrogen supplied per instance and the amount of electricity supplied per instance. These limits are more restrictive than those in the first mode, which is selected under normal circumstances. Therefore, in the event of a disaster, energy can be supplied to a larger number of recipients.

[0040] As described above, the energy supply device of Embodiment 1 can generate electricity using natural energy and store the obtained energy in the form of electricity and hydrogen. By storing energy in hydrogen, it is possible to store energy for a long period of time with minimal loss. Furthermore, the energy supply device of Embodiment 1 can distribute the stored electrical energy or hydrogen to many recipients in the event of a disaster.

[0041] [Embodiment 2] Figure 3 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the energy supply device according to Embodiment 2. Figure 3 shows a detailed example of the configuration of the natural energy power generation device 11. Note that the mode switching control is the same as in Figure 2, so the explanation will not be repeated.

[0042] The energy system 101 shown in Figure 3 consists of an energy supply device 102, a fuel cell 3, and a load 4.

[0043] The energy supply device 102 includes a power generation device 110 that generates electricity using natural energy, a hydrogen production device 20 that receives electricity from the power generation device 110 and produces and stores hydrogen, and a supply control device 30 that supplies the hydrogen produced by the hydrogen production device 20.

[0044] The hydrogen production apparatus 20 and the supply control device 30 are the same as in Embodiment 1, so we will not repeat their explanation here.

[0045] The power generation device 110 includes a renewable energy power generation device 11, a storage battery 16, and an inverter 18.

[0046] As shown in Figure 3, the renewable energy power generation device 11 includes a solar cell module 111 and a DC-DC converter 112. The renewable energy power generation device 11 further includes a wind turbine 113 and an AC-DC converter 114. The renewable energy power generation device 11 further includes a power generation control device 119.

[0047] The solar cell module 111 may include multiple solar cell modules. The power generation control device 119 is configured to include a controller that performs MPPT (Maximum Power Point Tracking) control.

[0048] The wind turbine 113 includes blades that rotate in response to wind and a generator. The power generation control device 119 further includes a controller that controls the wind turbine 113.

[0049] The storage battery 16 can be a lithium iron phosphate storage battery, a lithium titanate storage battery, or the like, which does not generate hydrogen during operation and does not ignite in compression tests or nail-insertion tests.

[0050] The energy supply device of Embodiment 2 generates electricity using solar or wind power as a natural energy source and can store the obtained energy in the form of electricity and hydrogen. Furthermore, in the event of a disaster, the stored electrical energy or hydrogen can be distributed to many recipients.

[0051] Alternatively, the renewable energy power generation equipment 11, such as a solar power generation system or a wind power generation system, and the hydrogen production equipment 20 may be mounted in a single enclosure, such as a container, so that they can be moved.

[0052] While it is expected that the solar cell modules will be placed on the ceiling of the enclosure during transport, if the energy supply device 102 is fixed in place, a large amount of electricity P can be secured by installing many solar cell modules on ground-mounted frames.

[0053] This makes it possible to supply hydrogen and electricity not only at fixed locations, but also while in transit or at desired destinations.

[0054] Furthermore, the energy supply device 102 does not necessarily have to include a hydrogen compressor 22 or a hydrogen storage device 23. The hydrogen generator 21 may supply hydrogen directly to the fuel cell 3 or the like without going through the hydrogen compressor 22 or the hydrogen storage device 23, as shown by the dashed arrow in Figure 3.

[0055] [Embodiment 3] Figure 4 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the energy supply device according to Embodiment 3. Figure 4 describes a configuration that primarily connects to a general electrical load, rather than a load including a fuel cell, such as a fuel cell vehicle. Note that the mode switching control is the same as in Figure 2, so the explanation will not be repeated.

[0056] The energy system 201 shown in Figure 4 consists of an energy supply device 202 and a load 4.

[0057] The energy supply device 202 comprises a power generation device 110 that generates electricity using natural energy, a hydrogen production device 20 that receives electricity from the power generation device 110 to produce and store hydrogen, a fuel cell 203, and a supply control device 230 that supplies electrical energy to the load 4.

[0058] The hydrogen production device 20 and the power generation device 110 are the same as in Embodiment 2, so we will not repeat their explanation here.

[0059] The supply control device 230 supplies surplus power to the hydrogen production device 20 and stores the energy as hydrogen when the load 4 is not connected or when the power consumption of the load 4 is less than the amount of power generated by the natural energy power generation device 11.

[0060] On the other hand, if the power consumption of load 4 is greater than the amount of power generated by the renewable energy power generation device 11, the supply control device 230 supplements the insufficient power from the storage battery 16 and supplies it to load 4. In this case, if the remaining capacity of the storage battery 16 falls below a predetermined value, the fuel cell 203 is activated to convert the hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage device 23 into electrical energy.

[0061] The energy supply device 202 of Embodiment 3 is equipped with a fuel cell 203. Therefore, in addition to the effects of the energy supply devices of Embodiments 1 and 2, it becomes possible to supply power to the outside using stored hydrogen, thus increasing its convenience as an emergency power source.

[0062] Furthermore, the energy supply device 202 does not necessarily have to include the hydrogen compressor 22 or the hydrogen storage device 23. The hydrogen generator 21 may supply hydrogen directly to the fuel cell 203 or the like without going through the hydrogen compressor 22 or the hydrogen storage device 23, as shown by the dashed arrow in Figure 4.

[0063] [Embodiment 4] Figure 5 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the energy supply device according to Embodiment 4. The energy system 301 shown in Figure 5 consists of an energy supply device 302, a fuel cell 3, and a load 4. The mode switching control is the same as in Figure 2, so the explanation will not be repeated.

[0064] The energy supply device 302 comprises a power generation device 310 that generates electricity using natural energy, a hydrogen production device 20 that receives electricity from the power generation device 310 to produce and store hydrogen, and a supply control device 330 that supplies the hydrogen produced by the hydrogen production device 20.

[0065] The hydrogen production apparatus 20 is the same as in Embodiments 1 to 3, so we will not repeat the explanation here.

[0066] The power generation device 310 includes a solar cell module 111, a DC-DC converter 112, a wind turbine 113, an AC-DC converter 114, a power generation control device 319, storage batteries 315 and 316, and inverters 313 and 318. The power generation control device 319 includes a solar cell controller that performs MPPT control and a controller that controls the wind turbine 113.

[0067] From the time the hydrogen production device 20 generates hydrogen until it starts supplying hydrogen to the fuel cell, time is required for the startup of each device (hydrogen production, compression, and storage), as well as the time required for the hydrogen produced in the hydrogen production process to move step by step through the compression and storage processes. On the other hand, power supply from the inverter 313 to the load 4 can start immediately when the power switch of the inverter 313 is turned ON. Therefore, if power is initially supplied from the inverter 313 to the load 4, and then from the fuel cell 3 to the load 4, power supply to the load 4 can be started earlier.

[0068] Therefore, as shown in Figure 5, by providing two or more battery systems, the power supply interruption time to load 4 can be shortened.

[0069] The battery 316 for supplying power to the hydrogen production device 20 and the battery 315 for supplying power to the general electrical device load 4 are separated, and the supply control device 330 monitors the capacity of each battery and flows the electricity generated by the renewable energy power generation device to the battery with the least remaining capacity, storing the electricity while supplying power to each load.

[0070] Furthermore, the energy supply device 302 does not necessarily have to include the hydrogen compressor 22 or the hydrogen storage device 23. The hydrogen generator 21 may supply hydrogen directly to the fuel cell 3 or the like without going through the hydrogen compressor 22 or the hydrogen storage device 23, as shown by the dashed arrow in Figure 3.

[0071] [Embodiment 5] Figure 6 is a block diagram showing the configuration of the energy supply device according to Embodiment 5.

[0072] The energy system 401 shown in Figure 6 consists of an energy supply device 402, a fuel cell 3, and a load 4.

[0073] The energy supply device 402 includes a power generation device 110 that generates electricity using natural energy, a hydrogen production device 20 that receives electricity from the power generation device 110 and produces and stores hydrogen, a supply control device 430 that supplies the hydrogen produced by the hydrogen production device 20, a power sensor 421, a capacity sensor 422, a billing control switch 423, and a billing control valve 424.

[0074] The hydrogen production apparatus 20 and the power generation apparatus 110 are the same as in Embodiment 1, so we will not repeat their explanation here.

[0075] The energy supply device 402 normally supplies hydrogen to fuel cells, etc., but when supplying hydrogen to someone other than the owner, the supply control device 430 monitors the amount of hydrogen stored and sets the amount that can be supplied, and sells it based on the unit amount.

[0076] Similarly, when supplying hydrogen at events or other locations, it can be sold based on a unit price.

[0077] Similarly, when power is supplied from the battery 116, the supply control device 430 monitors the remaining capacity of the battery 116, sets the amount that can be supplied, and sells the electricity based on that amount.

[0078] On the other hand, in the event of a disaster, the supply control device 430 changes its operating mode, monitors the amount of hydrogen stored, sets the amount that can be supplied, and limits the supply per instance. Similarly, when power is supplied from the battery 116, the supply control device 430 monitors the remaining capacity of the battery 116 and limits the supply per instance.

[0079] Under normal circumstances, after billing is confirmed, the billing control valve 424 is opened, and the predetermined amount of hydrogen is supplied to the fuel cell 3. As a result, power is supplied to the load 4, and the electrical equipment operates. At this time, the billing control switch 423 is OFF, and no electricity is sent from the inverter 118 to the load 4. On the other hand, in the event of an abnormal situation such as a natural disaster, the following procedures are performed.

[0080] Figure 7 is a flowchart illustrating an example of the operation of the energy supply device according to Embodiment 5.

[0081] First, in step S11, the power supply control device 430 determines whether a disaster has occurred or whether there is a power generation shortage. For example, a user or administrator can determine whether a disaster has occurred or a power generation shortage by directly operating the control unit to provide the power supply control device 430 with an input signal indicating a disaster or power generation shortage, or by providing the power supply control device 430 with an input signal indicating a disaster via a mobile phone or internet connection. Alternatively, by equipping the device with a vibration sensor to simulate an earthquake, the power supply control device 430 may automatically determine that a disaster has occurred by sensing a predetermined vibration with the vibration sensor, without requiring direct or remote operation.

[0082] If it is determined that no disaster has occurred or that there is no shortage of power generation (NO in S11), the supply control device 430 turns off the billing control switch 423 and opens the billing control valve 424 in step S12. Then, in step S13, the supply control device 430 supplies hydrogen to the fuel cell 3. As a result, under normal circumstances, electricity is supplied from the fuel cell 3 to the load 4.

[0083] On the other hand, if a disaster occurs or if it is determined that the amount of power generated is insufficient (YES in S11), the supply control device 430 turns on the billing control switch 423 in step S14 and supplies power to the load 4. At this time, in order to prevent the hydrogen in the hydrogen storage device from being wasted, the billing control valve 424 is kept closed and no hydrogen is supplied to the fuel cell 3. As a result, electricity from the battery is supplied to the load 4 before the hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage device 23 (S15).

[0084] Next, in step S16, the supply control device 430 measures the remaining charge of the battery 116 using the power sensor 421 and determines whether the remaining charge of the battery 116 is below a predetermined value. If the remaining charge is not below the predetermined value (NO in S16), the process in step S15 is executed again. On the other hand, if the remaining charge of the battery 116 becomes below the predetermined value (YES in S16), in step S17, the supply control device 430 turns off the billing control switch 423, stops the power supply from the inverter 118 to the load 4, and opens the billing control valve 424, supplying hydrogen stored in the hydrogen storage device 23 to the fuel cell 3. As a result, in step S18, the load 4 is driven by the power generated by the fuel cell 3.

[0085] In this case, in step S19, the remaining amount of hydrogen is detected by the capacity sensor of the hydrogen storage device. The supply control device 430 then determines whether the remaining amount of hydrogen is below a predetermined value.

[0086] If the hydrogen level is higher than the default value (NO in S19), the process returns to step S18 and the hydrogen supply continues. On the other hand, if the hydrogen level falls below the default value (YES in S19), in step S20, the supply control device 430 closes the charging control valve 424 and stops the hydrogen supply to the fuel cell 3.

[0087] Furthermore, a control switch (not shown) may be provided between the inverter 118 and the hydrogen production device 20, and in the event of a disaster, the power supply from the inverter 118 to the hydrogen production device 20 may be stopped by turning off the control switch with the supply control device 430. The reason for this is that when the fuel cell 3 is operated via the hydrogen production device 20, power loss occurs due to the influence of the energy conversion efficiency of each device. Therefore, in the event of a disaster, prioritizing the supply of power from the inverter 118 to the load 4 is more energy-efficient overall.

[0088] By performing the process described above, electricity can be supplied to the load 4 from the hydrogen in the battery 116 and the hydrogen storage device 23.

[0089] Even if the billing control valve is closed and the billing control switch is turned off in step S20, once electricity is generated by natural energy and more than a predetermined capacity is stored in the battery 116, power is supplied to the load 4 by repeating the process from step S11 in Figure 7.

[0090] According to the energy supply device 402 of Embodiment 5, by configuring it to charge for hydrogen and electricity supply as needed, it becomes possible to ask users to bear a proportionate share of the maintenance costs incurred by the owner.

[0091] [Example of a renewable energy power generation system configuration] The following describes an example configuration of a renewable energy power generation device. While applicable to any of Embodiments 1 to 5, the following description will use the same reference numerals as in Figure 3 of Embodiment 2.

[0092] Figure 8 is a side view of a container 510, which is an example of the configuration of the renewable energy power generation device 11.

[0093] The energy supply device 102 includes at least a hydrogen production device 20 and a renewable energy power generation device 11, as shown in Figure 3. The hydrogen production device 20 is located inside the container 510.

[0094] The hydrogen production device 20 and the renewable energy power generation device 11 are configured to be housed in a container 510 and can be transported to any location by a transport vehicle.

[0095] Container 510 is equipped with double doors 510A and 510B on its sides. Figure 8 shows the state in which doors 510A and 510B on the side of container 510 are open.

[0096] A photovoltaic power generation device 572, including a solar cell module 111, is installed in the center of the top surface of the container 510. The photovoltaic power generation device 572 generates electricity in response to sunlight received by the solar cell module 111. The photovoltaic power generation device 572 is electrically connected to the hydrogen production device 20 by an electrical cable. The electricity generated by the photovoltaic power generation device 572 is supplied via the electrical cable to the battery 16 shown in Figure 3 and stored.

[0097] A wind turbine 113, including a wind turbine 731 and a generator 732, is positioned on the outside of the side wall of the container 510. The wind turbine 113 generates electricity as the wind turbine 731 rotates in response to wind. The wind turbine 113 is electrically connected to the hydrogen production device 20 by an electrical cable. The electricity generated by the wind turbine 113 is supplied via the electrical cable to the battery 16 shown in Figure 3 for storage. The wind turbine 113 may be configured to change its vertical position using a lifting device (not shown) as needed. For example, when generating electricity with the wind turbine 113, it can be positioned in a raised position as shown in Figure 8 so that the wind turbine 731 can rotate in response to wind. On the other hand, when the wind turbine 113 is not generating electricity or during transport, the wind turbine 731 can be lowered using the lifting device to a position lower than the height of the container.

[0098] Although not shown in Figure 3, the renewable energy power generation device 11 may also include a hydroelectric power generation device 574, as shown in Figure 8. Inside the container 510, the hydroelectric power generation device 574 is held in place on the inner wall of the door 510B. The hydroelectric power generation device 574 has a turbine 741 mounted on the lower part of a base 743, and a generator 742 mounted inside the base 743. The generator 742 generates electricity based on the rotation of the turbine 741. The hydroelectric power generation device 574 is mounted so as to be easily removable from the inner wall of the door 510B.

[0099] The hydroelectric power generator 574 is removed from the inner wall of the door 510B, and a base 743 is erected on the waterway so that the turbine 741 can receive the water flow in any waterway. In the waterway, the hydroelectric power generator 574 generates electricity based on the rotation of the turbine 741 as it receives the water flow, and the generator 742 generates electricity. The hydroelectric power generator 574 is electrically connected to the hydrogen production device 20 by an electrical cable. The electricity generated by the hydroelectric power generator 574 is supplied to the battery 16 shown in Figure 3 via the electrical cable and stored. Alternatively, the hydroelectric power generator 574 may be placed on a trolley, such as a hand-pushed trolley or a self-propelled trolley, and stored inside the container 510. In that case, the hydroelectric power generator 574 can be transported to the destination while stored inside the container 510, and upon arrival at the destination, it can be placed on a trolley, pulled out from inside the container 510, and installed in a location where power can be generated.

[0100] Such a solar power generation device 572, a wind turbine 113, and a hydroelectric power generation device 574 are included in the renewable energy power generation device 11. The renewable energy power generation device 11 is capable of generating electricity from any of the renewable energy sources of solar, wind, and hydropower by using at least one of the solar power generation device 572, the wind turbine 113, and the hydroelectric power generation device 574.

[0101] As shown in Figure 8, the renewable energy power generation device 11 can generate electricity using multiple types of renewable energy, so it can generate electricity to the extent possible even in environments where electricity cannot be supplied. Furthermore, when generating electricity with the solar power generation device 572 located on the top of the container, renewable energy can be used more effectively to generate electricity even while the hydrogen production device 20 is being transported, and the amount of stored energy in the battery 16 can be stably secured.

[0102] (summary) Let's summarize the embodiments 1 to 5 described above by referring again to the drawings.

[0103] The energy supply device 2 shown in Figure 1 comprises a power generation device 10 that generates electricity using natural energy, a hydrogen production device 20 that receives electricity from the power generation device 10 and produces at least hydrogen, and a supply control device 30 that supplies the hydrogen produced by the hydrogen production device 20. The supply control device 30 controls the supply of hydrogen by the hydrogen production device 20 according to the power generation status of the power generation device 10 or the supply and demand status of the hydrogen supply destination.

[0104] Preferably, the supply control device 30 is configured to be switchable between a first mode and a second mode as operating modes. In the second mode, the supply control device 30 is configured to limit the amount of hydrogen supplied per cycle more than in the first mode.

[0105] Preferably, the first mode is selected during normal operation, and the second mode is selected when a disaster occurs.

[0106] More preferably, the first mode is selected under normal circumstances, and the second mode is selected when the power output of the power generator 10 is lower than a threshold.

[0107] More preferably, the supply control device 30 is configured to control the supply of electricity generated by the power generator 10 in addition to the supply of hydrogen. In the second mode, the supply control device 30 is configured to limit the amount of electricity supplied per instance more than in the first mode.

[0108] The power generation device 10 includes a renewable energy power generation device 11 and a battery 16 for storing the electricity generated by the renewable energy power generation device 11. This allows for the stabilization of the unstable power generation of the renewable energy power generation device 11 by using the battery 16 as a buffer, thereby enabling continuous hydrogen production.

[0109] The hydrogen production apparatus 20 includes at least a hydrogen generator 21 that generates hydrogen using electricity generated by a renewable energy power generation device. The hydrogen production apparatus 20 may further include a hydrogen compressor 22 that compresses the hydrogen generated by the hydrogen generator 21, and a hydrogen storage device 23 that stores the hydrogen compressed by the hydrogen compressor 22. The supply control device 30 is configured to supply an amount of hydrogen according to the amount of hydrogen to be supplied to the recipient in the first mode, and to supply hydrogen with a predetermined amount as the upper limit of the amount supplied per time in the second mode.

[0110] Furthermore, by monitoring the battery capacity and hydrogen storage level and adjusting the supply amount, the energy supply device can be operated for longer periods, allowing it to be used more effectively as an energy source.

[0111] More preferably, as shown in Figure 3, the renewable energy power generation device 11 includes a solar cell module 111 and a DC-DC converter 112.

[0112] More preferably, as shown in Figure 3, the renewable energy power generation device 11 includes a wind turbine 113 and an AC-DC converter 114.

[0113] More preferably, the power supply control device 30 is configured to supply an amount of power according to a specified amount of power designated by the recipient in the first mode, and to supply power with a predetermined amount of power as the upper limit of the amount of power supplied per instance in the second mode.

[0114] More preferably, the supply control device 30 is configured to select a first mode under normal circumstances and a second mode in the event of a disaster.

[0115] With the energy supply device configured as described above, it is possible to provide an energy source that simultaneously supplies hydrogen to fuel cells and the like, and supplies electricity from storage batteries and inverters, by generating, compressing, and storing hydrogen using a natural energy power generation device.

[0116] As shown in Figure 8, the renewable energy power generation device and the hydrogen production device may be housed in a single container 510 or similar enclosure to allow for mobility, enabling them to function as a minimum energy source under various conditions. Such an enclosure is constructed to have sufficient strength to be moved while housing the renewable energy power generation device and the hydrogen production device.

[0117] Furthermore, while the configurations shown in Figures 3 to 6 illustrate configurations that use solar and wind power as renewable energy sources, a hydroelectric power generation device 574 that uses hydropower as a renewable energy source may also be installed.

[0118] The embodiments disclosed herein should be considered in all respects to be illustrative and not restrictive. The scope of the present invention is indicated by the claims rather than by the description of the embodiments above, and all modifications within the meaning and scope equivalent to the claims are intended to be included. [Explanation of Symbols]

[0119] 1,101,201,301,401 Energy systems, 2,102,202,302,402 Energy supply devices, 3,203 Fuel cells, 4 Loads, 10,110,310 Power generation devices, 11 Renewable energy power generation devices, 16,116,315,316 Storage batteries, 18,118,313,318 Inverters, 20 Hydrogen production devices, 21 Hydrogen generation devices, 22 Hydrogen compressors, 23 Hydrogen storage devices, 30,230,330,430 Supply control devices, 111 Solar cell modules, 112,114 Converters, 113 Wind turbines, 119,319 Power generation control devices, 421 Power sensors, 422 Capacity sensors, 423 Billing control switches, 424 Billing control valves, 510 Containers, 510A,510B Door, 572 solar power generation equipment, 574 hydroelectric power generation equipment, 731 wind turbine, 732, 742 generator, 741 water turbine, 743 base.

Claims

1. A power generation device that generates electricity using renewable energy, A hydrogen production device that receives electricity from the aforementioned power generation device and produces at least hydrogen, The system includes a supply control device that supplies hydrogen produced by the hydrogen production apparatus, The supply control device is configured to control the supply of hydrogen by the hydrogen production device according to the conditions of the hydrogen supply destination. The supply control device is configured to be switchable between a first mode and a second mode as operating modes, and in the second mode, it is configured to supply hydrogen with a limited amount of hydrogen supplied per instance compared to the first mode. The first mode is selected during normal operation of the supply destination, The second mode is an energy supply device selected when a disaster occurs at the recipient site.

2. The supply control device is configured to control the supply of electricity generated by the power generation device in addition to the supply of hydrogen. The energy supply device according to claim 1, wherein the supply control device is configured to supply power in the second mode with a limit on the amount of power supplied per instance compared to the first mode.

3. The aforementioned power generation device is A renewable energy power generation device, This includes a power storage device that stores the electricity generated by the aforementioned natural energy power generation device, The hydrogen production apparatus includes at least a hydrogen generation apparatus that generates hydrogen using electricity generated by the natural energy power generation apparatus, The energy supply device according to claim 1, wherein the supply control device is configured to supply an amount of hydrogen in accordance with the amount of hydrogen to be supplied to the recipient in the first mode, and to supply hydrogen in a predetermined amount as the upper limit of the amount supplied per instance in the second mode.

4. The energy supply device according to claim 3, wherein the natural energy power generation device includes a solar cell module, a photovoltaic power generation controller, and a DC-DC converter.

5. The energy supply device according to claim 3 or 4, wherein the natural energy power generation device includes a wind turbine, a wind power generation controller, and an AC-DC converter.

6. The energy supply device according to any one of claims 3 to 5, wherein the supply control device is configured to supply an amount of power according to a specified amount of power designated to the recipient in the first mode, and to supply power with a predetermined amount of power as the upper limit of the amount of power supplied per instance in the second mode.

7. The energy supply device according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the supply control device is configured to select the first mode under normal circumstances and the second mode in the event of a disaster.

8. The energy supply device according to any one of claims 3 to 6, wherein the supply control device stops the hydrogen generator when the remaining capacity of the energy storage device is less than a first specified value, stops the hydrogen generator when the remaining capacity of the energy storage device is less than a second specified value which is less than the first specified value, and stops supplying power to devices other than the hydrogen generator.

9. The energy supply device according to any one of claims 3 to 8, further comprising a housing for housing the power generation device and the natural energy power generation device, wherein the housing is configured to have sufficient strength to be movable.

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