Reverion FAQ

Solid Oxide Cells, or SOCs, are high-temperature fuel cells that use a solid ceramic material as electrolyte. The advantages of this technology include high power densities, high electrical efficiency, and the use of more readily available materials compared to other fuel cell types.

In the Reverion system, the purified biogas is first separated into its main components: methane and CO2. This prepared gas is then heated and fed into the SOCs, where it reacts with oxygen from the ambient air to generate electricity.

Conventional combined heat and power systems (CHP) use gas engines with a limited electrical efficiency of maximum 40–42%. A large portion of the input energy is lost due to combustion and mechanical friction.

Previous fuel cell systems reach slightly higher efficiencies of about 50–60%, but they can only utilize around 70% of the input gas. Excess gas must be supplied to protect the fuel cells, and the unused portion is burned off.

In contrast, Reverion power plants are the first technology capable of utilizing 100% of the input fuel gas.

100% of the calorific value (input energy) is converted into 80% electrical energy + 15% thermal energy + 5% internal consumption. The majority of the energy is used for electricity generation, while a portion remains as process heat that can be recovered (typically at 70–80°C water temperature).

In addition to power generation, the system can switch to electrolysis mode and convert incoming electrical energy into gas. Depending on the need, either hydrogen or methane can be produced. These gases can be used as long-term, transportable energy storage.

In this mode, 80% of the input electricity is converted into gas. The amount of thermal energy generated is the same as during electricity generation, which means the same level of heat recovery is possible.

The system automatically switches between electricity and gas mode based on market electricity prices. When prices are high, the system generates electricity. When prices are low or negative, the system switches to gas production.

Reverion power plants are eligible under Germany’s EEG feed-in tariff scheme, and this is factored into the system’s operating schedule. Best of all, the entire process is managed by your direct marketer—no manual intervention needed.

The name “Reverion” is derived from the words “reversible” and “ions.” Our power plants use reversible fuel cells that can both generate electricity and operate in electrolysis mode to produce green methane or hydrogen from surplus electricity. Depending on the operating mode, the flow of oxygen ions within the SOC is actively reversed.

Regardless of the expected lifetime of individual components, we guarantee a technical lifetime of 20 years for the entire system. This is based on our full-service maintenance contract. It includes not only routine maintenance and necessary repairs (including replacement of the fuel cells if needed), but also comprehensive support during commissioning and potential decommissioning of the system at the end of its lifetime.

Depending on the available infrastructure and marketing concept, a Reverion power plant enables various revenue streams.

• Electricity production and marketing:
  • Use for on-site power supply.
  • Feed-in to the power grid and trading on the electricity market.
  • In many countries, there are also support schemes for feeding in renewable electricity (e.g. EEG subsidies in Germany).

• Gas marketing (methane or hydrogen):
  • During periods of low electricity prices, you can produce biomethane, synthetic methane, and/or hydrogen. These gas products can be marketed in addition to electricity.
  • The gases can either be fed into the gas grid, stored locally for later reconversion to electricity, or prepared for further use through compression or liquefaction – for example via CNG, LNG, or hydrogen refueling stations.

• Maximizing flexibility:
  • You benefit from the ability to quickly switch between operating modes (within one minute) to respond to dynamic fluctuations in electricity prices throughout the day. Control is fully automated via a direct marketer who ensures your plant is always operated in the most profitable mode – allowing you to participate in the electricity market with minimal effort and maximum returns.

• CO₂ marketing:
  • The CO₂ captured in the Reverion power plant can be liquefied or compressed for storage and transport, and sold to downstream industries or used for permanent storage.
  • A portion of the CO₂ generated during electricity production can also be temporarily stored on site without pressure and reused in reverse operation as a feedstock for synthetic methane production – reducing gas production costs.

• Additional revenue products
  • Waste heat: A small portion of the input energy is recovered as heat. This can be used directly on site (e.g. for fermenter heating) or in adjacent buildings for targeted heat supply.
  • Demineralized water: The process also generates demineralized (deionized) water, which can be marketed to industrial customers – for example for use in cooling systems.

By combining these different sales channels, you can operate your Reverion power plant profitably all year round. Unlike with other technologies, no seasonal shutdown is necessary, and system utilization is maximized.

Depending on the site-specific conditions and chosen marketing strategy, different business models may be suitable. We will gladly discuss the most viable options with you in detail. In typical applications, you can expect your investment to pay off in under 40% of the plant’s lifetime – or even under 20% in the best case.

1. First, ensure that your intended site has the required infrastructure:

   • Biogas supply from the fermenter

   • Installation area for the Reverion container:
      • Reverion M-100/250: 20-foot standard container
      • Reverion M-500/1250: 40-foot standard container

   • Water supply (inlet and outlet)

   • Power connection and transformer capacity

   • Gas connection, if direct injection into the gas grid is desired. Alternatively, a product gas storage or filling station may be used

2. Next, we recommend getting a first-hand impression of the system.
   We regularly host info events at our headquarters in Eresing and would be happy to invite you.

3. Please also note the legal framework:

   • The system is a complete machine within the meaning of the EU Machinery Directive and is CE certified. It includes a pressure vessel placed on the market in accordance with the Pressure Equipment Directive. The vessel does not require a permit but must be inspected before commissioning.

   • As a rule, a modification notice under §15 BImSchG is sufficient. The responsible authority will assess whether the modification requires a permit.

   • The Reverion container is equipped with transport lugs and can be dismantled quickly. Depending on the local authority’s interpretation, a building permit may not be necessary.

   • Approval requirements depend on local regulations. We recommend early contact with the relevant authority. We will support you with the necessary technical documents throughout the permitting process.

   • Unlike conventional CHP units, the exhaust gases from the Reverion system contain no emission-relevant substances under the TA Luft regulation.

   • The plant does not emit any water-hazardous substances as defined by the German Water Act (WHG).

4. I would like to order a Reverion power plant – what should I do?
   We’re happy to offer the option of placing a pre-order and securing a production slot today. Just get in touch and we’ll provide all necessary details.

5. When will my Reverion power plant be delivered?
   The first commercial units have been delivered since early 2025. As serial production ramps up, capacity is still limited. We therefore recommend pre-ordering to secure your preferred delivery date.

6. I have further questions!
   If you’d like to discuss the integration of a Reverion power plant into your operations or have other questions, feel free to contact us, schedule a consultation, or visit us at one of our upcoming trade fair appearances.