Assessing system-level synergies between photovoltaic and proton exchange membrane electrolyzers for solar-powered hydrogen production

Abstract

This study delves into the techno-economic benefits of integrating Proton Exchange Membrane electrolyzers with photovoltaic systems for hydrogen production, with a keen focus on cost optimization strategies. A comprehensive analysis of several system scales and cost scenarios unveils the critical roles of Proton Exchange Membrane stack systems and the Balance of Plant components in influencing capital expenditures. Notably, the research identifies that incorporating the grid via a complementary Power Purchase Agreement, alongside clipped solar energy, innovatively redistributes cost elements. This approach significantly reduces the levelized cost of hydrogen, thereby enabling the feasibility of hydrogen production in regions characterized by low solar radiation at the cost of high grid electricity penetration. Sensitivity to energy costs, accentuated by different integration schemes, highlights the pivotal role of the stack cost and the Balance of Plant cost reductions in achieving economic viability for large-scale deployments. The study underscores the necessity of holistic cost optimization, revealing that strategic grid support coupled with solar energy enhances the techno-economic performance and broadens the scope for renewable hydrogen production in less favorable locales. These insights offer invaluable guidance to stakeholders, advocating for advanced integration strategies that promise both efficiency and financial sustainability in the burgeoning field of renewable hydrogen production systems.