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The BlueGen Ceramic Fuel Cell unit is an Australian product that is receiving some very good reports, and will no doubt be an excellent export.

Let us hope that we also get the benefits of this power creating system.

Basically the BlueGen is a mini power station, using natural gas and ceramic fuel cells to create electricity.

Each unit, which is about the same size as a washing machine is capable of creating 1.5 to 2.0 kWh of electricity, about the same as a basic 1.5kWh Solar Panel system. However, there are two costs involved:

1. The capital cost of the unit itself.
2. The Gas that is used to power the system.

I am trying to find the price for these units, and will add it here when I do, but this quote from the manufacturer, indicates a VERY high cost at present.

Early units will likely be sold to larger customers, like energy utilities and Governments, for demonstration projects. As costs come down the product will be marketed to residential customers.

The Gas cost can be calculated locally, based on between about 9 and 12 MJ of gas per hour. I did read that the price in one State is $0.0152 per MJ.

Therefore the cost could be as high as $400 per quarter. (12MJ x 24 hours x 91 days (3 months) x $0.0152).  Some of this power should be able to be sold back to the Electricity Companies, which would reduce an individuals costs.

However, one thing that does worry me is this quote:

The BlueGen™ unit is designed to last the same as a hot water unit – typically 10-15 years.

Depending on the capital cost, this has the potential to wipe out any savings.  At an installed cost of $2,000 I think it may be feasible.  That is however, less than a Solar Panel installation, and that price could wipe out the Solar Panel Industry.

Currently the BlueGen units do not qualify for any Government subsidies or rebates of any kind.

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