MODELING OF PV, ELECTROLYZER AND GAS STORAGE IN A STAND-ALONE SOLAR-FUEL CELL SYSTEM

摘要

A model was developed to optimize a photovoltaic module-electrolyzer subsystem in a small stand-alone solar system. The system provides electrical energy from a fuel cell with energy storage from pressurized hydrogen and oxygen gases. At constant pressure and temperature, a solid polymer electrolyte (SPE) electrolyzer appears to be a good match to photovoltaic (PV) power. The (non-pressurized) subsystem was simulated at 12 volts with a 300 W PV panel. A ten-8.4-cm~2-cell electrolyzer provides the optimal match. The system was simulated with Chicago TMY2 weather data. Direct coupling of the PV to the electrolyzer is 95% efficient. Using the electrolyzer itself to directly pressurize the hydrogen and oxygen for storage is predicted to be much less efficient than a system with a compressor. The cost of the system is predicted to be in the range of $4,000.