SYSTEM AND METHODS FOR DETERMINING A STACK CURRENT REQUEST BASED ON FUEL CELL OPERATIONAL CONDITIONS

A stack current controller may be configured to determine a stack current request based on a state of charge of a battery, an error based on a difference between an actual coolant temperature and a coolant temperature setpoint, or both. A plurality of stack current levels may be implemented corresponding to different battery state-of-charge thresholds. The determined stack current magnitude may be the lowest current magnitude that provides sufficient heat to maintain a coolant temperature at the coolant temperature setpoint or within the coolant temperature threshold. The determined stack current magnitude may be the highest current magnitude that provides sufficient power while maintaining a coolant temperature at the coolant temperature setpoint or within the coolant temperature threshold.