Increasing the Capacity of Photovoltaics Using Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell Backup within a Residential Community

The popularity of the Feed-in Tariff program in Ontario has brought in a large number of renewable energy suppliers, especially in solar photovoltaic (PV) on the residential level. Due to the intermittent nature of PV energy generation, the capacity of PV is limited by the grid's ability to provide backup. This research explores the use of residential proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) for backup purposes. Simulation was performed to assess the combined performance of PV and PEMFC systems in a grid-connected, hypothetical community located in Ottawa. A power management strategy was developed to operate the PEMFC system. The added PEMFC capacity in the community increased the PV capacity limit. This thesis also examined the feasibility of bringing the PEMFC technology into the Ontario market. Learning from stakeholder interviews, policy recommendations of a rebate program and a net-metering scheme were formulated to engage customers while increasing the province's generation capacity.