SatCon Technology Introduces the PowerGate Power-Conversion System

SatCon Technology Corp. (Cambridge, MA) has released its PowerGate power-conversion system with GridLink utility grid interface for fuel-cell-distributed power-generation systems. The GridLink Interface allows fuel cells to operate just like plug-in appliances and will enable them to operate seamlessly in a grid-independent or grid-parallel mode. It will be sold as part of SatCon's PowerGate power-conversion systems, which are designed to handle load requirements up to 50kW.

The PowerGate system, including SatCon's new GridLink Interface, is modular and multiple units can be stacked to handle higher load requirements. It can also operate with microturbines, generators and other distributed-power generation systems. The overall system is designed for 5kW, with an average operating range of 3kW to 10kW.

According to David Eisenhaure, SatCon president and CEO, this allows the fuel cell to accommodate a wide range of installation requirements, also allowing it to operate during such occurrences as an overloaded circuit breaker without losing power to the entire house. Also according to Eisenhaure, the GridLink permits the fuel cell to operate both grid parallel and grid independent, pulling power from the grid during peak hours.