Hydrogen production by water electrolysis driven by a photovoltaic source: A review

Abstract

The integration of water electrolyzers and photovoltaic (PV) solar technology is a potential development in renewable energy systems, offering new avenues for sustainable energy generation and storage. This coupling consists of using PV-generated electricity to power water electrolysis, breaking down water molecules into hydrogen and oxygen. While oxygen is a useful byproduct, the created hydrogen is used as a clean, storable energy carrier or feedstock for numerous businesses. It is possible to operate the device with or without battery storage. When solar energy is combined with batteries, excess solar energy may be stored for later use, maximizing energy efficiency and guaranteeing a steady supply of electricity even in the absence of direct sunlight. On the other hand, battery-free systems depend on the electrolyzer’s continuous power generation to convert solar energy into hydrogen during the day. In addition to allowing for the production of renewable hydrogen,this hybrid PV-solar and water electrolyzer setup contributes to grid stability by offering demand-side flexibility. Moreover, the modularity of these systems enables scalability to meet diverse energy requirements, spanning from residential to industrial applications, thereby fostering a cleaner and more sustainable energy landscape. This review delves into various topologies for PV-driven electrolysis and conducts a thorough exploration of the dynamics of low-temperature water electrolyzers. Specifically, it examines their integration with three primary technologies: Proton Exchange Membrane, Alkaline, and Anion Exchange Membrane, shedding light on their implications for the broader integration landscape. Through detailed analysis and insights, this study enriches the understanding of the potential and challenges inherent in the convergence of PV solar, water electrolysis, and renewable energy systems.

Keywords

• Energy storage
• Solar energy
• Renewable energy
• Hydrogen technologies
• Battery
• Water electrolysis