The HEART project aims to support the development of innovative technologies for energy conversion, with the goal of creating complex systems that combine the need for low-cost energy availability with environmental sustainability. Specifically, the project focuses on the research and development of an innovative module based on solid oxide fuel cell (SOFC) technology for multiple applications. The system is built around 6 kW SOFCs integrated into a module designed for three key applications:
1. Local energy storage in eco-buildings or eco-districts, with the optimal integration of a reversible system and solid-state storage for renewable energy backup;
2. Flexible and reliable power generation for fast-charging electric vehicle stations, helping to reduce infrastructure investment;
3. Trigeneration, i.e., the simultaneous production of electricity, heating, and cooling, through a hybrid solution that combines SOFCs with solar thermal technology and an absorption chiller.

Regarding the various applications, the first—focused on the development of a reversible system—will be developed and tested in a laboratory environment. A hydrogen storage unit will allow for the simulation of its reconversion into electricity and/or its direct use in future application scenarios, such as hydrogen-based sustainable mobility, in line with the long-term vision for sustainable urban transportation.

The second application, focused on electricity generation for fast charging of battery-powered vehicles, will target both public and private markets for electric vehicle charging stations. The third application, related to trigeneration systems, will be developed for both residential and industrial use. These latter applications will involve the creation of small-scale demonstrators installed in real-world settings.

The project involves the development of innovative products being implemented for the first time in the regions of Campania, Calabria, and Sicily, using multiple energy sources (e.g., methane combined with solar and other renewables) for distributed energy generation. The innovative technologies will be optimized to enable low-carbon solutions, with the added benefit of maximizing overall energy efficiency and output.