Abstract: A solid electrolyte galvanic energy conversion cell capable of being heated to at least 2000.degree. C. containing a form of carbon as a fuel internally and being exposed externally to a source of oxygen, such as air, to cause the passage of oxygen ions through the electrolyte thus causing the formation of CO or CO.sub.2 as desired. The carbon, for example, a rod, is in electrical contact with a solid electrolyte material having an oxygen ion permeability at a temperature of at least 705.degree. C. In one embodiment, an end of the cell is heated at the focal point of a parabolic solar energy collector and generates electrical energy while expelling CO gas which may later be oxidized to CO.sub.2 either by combustion or by means of a secondary galvanic cell to generate additional electrical energy.