Experimental and Analytical Study of a Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolyser Integrated with Thermal Energy Storage for Performance Enhancement

Abstract

To peak carbon dioxide emissions and carbon neutrality, hydrogen energy plays a pivotal role in the energy system dominated by wind power and solar power. The proton exchange membrane (PEM) electrolytic hydrogen production technology has advantages of higher current density, higher hydrogen purity, higher load flexibility, and balanced grid load, becoming one of effective ways to consume renewable energy. Experimental analysis finds that the present PEM electrolyser cannot maintain a stable operating temperature as the input power changes; the polarization curve would distort with the change of temperature. This work proposes a PEM electrolyser coupled with the thermal energy storage device to meet power fluctuation and frequent start and stop caused by renewable resources. Through the involvement of the thermal storage device, electrolytic system is able to operate quickly and persistently in an efficient condition. The coupled system effectively reduces energy consumption in the process of start-stop or load changing, which can effectively adapt to the power fluctuation and frequent start and stop caused by renewable energy.