Dynamic system modeling of thermally-integrated concentrated PV-electrolysis

Abstract Understanding the dynamic response of a solar fuel processing system utilizing concentrated radiation and made thermally-integrated photovoltaic (PV) water electrolyzer (EC) is important for design, development implementation this technology. A detailed non-linear process model introduced fundamental components (i.e. PV, EC, pump etc.) in order to investigate coupled behavior performance synergy notably arising from thermal integration. The nominal hydrogen production power ?2 kW at efficiency 16–21% considering high triple junction III-V PV module proton exchange membrane EC. device operating point relative maximum was shown have differing influence on when subject temperature changes. characterised step changes flowrate irradiance hysteresis current-voltage demonstrated. Whilst responds thermally conditions range 0.5–2 min which leads advantageously short start-up times, number control challenges are identified such as impact failure, electrical PV-EC disconnection, potentially damaging accentuated rise at lower flowrates. Finally, simulation co-generation heat various demonstrates significant potential enhancements required strategies demand matching discussed.