Dynamic Operation of Electrolyzers – Systems Design and Operating Strategies

A regenerative and emission free hydrogen production can be achieved by coupling of water electrolysis and renewable energy sources. These energy sources provide fluctuate and dynamic power loads. The electrolyzer and the complete system must be designed for such requirements. This chapter reviews state-of-the-art system designs for power to gas applications in relation to renewable energy sources. The main water electrolysis technologies, which are alkaline and polymer membrane electrolysis, will be discussed. The process steps of power-to-gas applications will be illustrated and connected to the respective system components. Key aspects of the system design like energy and commercial efficiency, lifetime, and safety will be considered. Furthermore, the complete electrolyzer system and the known dynamic behavior will be introduced. Subsequent requirements for the system design will be discussed.