Fuel Cells
Growing demand for reliable, dispatchable power is driving interest in utility-scale fuel cells that can be delivered faster and sited more flexibly than traditional generation. Today’s utility-scale fuel cell plants boast timeline advantages based on modular installation that can be put into action with less field construction.
What to Know About Fuel Cell Technology Selection
Fuel cells convert chemical energy into electricity through electrochemical reactions, offering highly efficient, low emission power generation across a range of applications. Solid oxide fuel cells (SOFC) are most commonly paired with natural gas while proton exchange membrane (PEM) fuel cells can be deployed to generate power with hydrogen.
SOFCs operate at high temperatures (about 800 degrees Celsius) and use a ceramic electrolyte to facilitate electrochemical reactions. The elevated operating temperature enables high electrical efficiency, fuel flexibility through internal methane reforming, and effective integration with combined heat and power or hybrid generation systems. PEM fuel cells operate at lower temperatures (less than 100 C) by using a polymer electrolyte, enabling rapid startup and responsive load following, making them well-suited for applications requiring operational flexibility, frequent cycling and integration with intermittent power resources.
The Burns & McDonnell Advantage
Our team brings an integrated, owner-focused approach to fuel cell deployment, combining experience in power generation, gas infrastructure, environmental permitting and grid interconnection. From early feasibility through procurement and execution, we help utilities and developers deliver fuel cell projects with speed, certainty and long-term operational confidence.
As a full-service engineer-procure-construct (EPC) contractor, we deliver construction-driven insight that enhances design accuracy, schedule alignment and cost certainty for fuel cell projects. Our integrated delivery approach enables efficient execution with early engagement of construction teams and focused planning that emphasizes site readiness, permitting, interconnection and execution.
Integrated Fuel Cell Power Solutions
Our engineering, procurement and advisory services for fuel cell projects support both utility-scale power generation and on-site, behind-the-meter applications. From early planning and technology evaluation through front-end engineering, detailed design, and grid or facility integration, we help deploy resilient, low emission generation solutions aligned with operational goals. Our experience spans fuel cell power plants, energy storage and hybrid energy architectures.
Throughout the fuel cell project life cycle, we offer:
- Consulting, tailored to optimize quality, reliability, schedule and budget.
- System planning and impact studies, to address the challenges of deploying on-site generation and to support the use of appropriate modeling approaches to evaluate performance, resiliency and operation requirements.
- Technology assessments, geared to achieving environmental goals and economic viability while leveraging strong relationships with multiple technology providers.
- Environmental and regulatory compliance assistance, including permitting, emissions profiles, technical documentation, agency coordination, natural and cultural resource reviews, public involvement, land and right-of-way management, sound studies, and environmental monitoring.
- Multidisciplinary design development and coordination, from preliminary concepts through construction documents, supporting seamless integration of fuel cell modules with balance-of-plant systems.
- Procurement services, including prequalification processes, shop drawing reviews and factory acceptance testing for large equipment.
- Program management delivery, integrating our full range of capabilities across multiple project sites, providing a single source of responsibility for your fuel cell projects.
- Construction services, leveraging long-term relationships with local subcontractors and suppliers, whether your project is delivered via a self-perform, construction management or EPC delivery model.
