Copper-terbia and copper-gadolina supported electrolyte SOFCs have been prepared by using standard procedures; such as, tape casting, dual tape casting, painting and impregnation. Anode XRD patterns analysis lead to the following chemical formulas: TbO(1.823)-CuO-Zr(0.8)Y(0.2)O(1.9) and Gd(2)O(3)-CuO-Zr(0.8)Y(0.2)O(1.9). Since TPR profiles and cell performances are fundamentally based on solid state RedOx reactions, a comparative analysis could suggest that there is an apparent correlation between them. This first approach may be considered as the basis of a simple methodology to predict SOFC anodes performances. Cu-TbO(2) SOFC performance depends on the hydrocarbon nature (toluene < n-heptane < cyclohexane < 1-hexene). the cell behaviour (in term of power density) is improved when light hydrocarbons (those which have low carbon/hydrogen ratio content) are fed. Furthermore, the performance is improved by successive anode reactivations using hydrogen. (c) 2009 Elsevier Ltd. All rights reserved.