| An electrolyzer/fuel cell energy storage system is a promising alternative to batteries for storing energy from solar electric power systems. Such a system was designed in cooperation with ElectroChem, Inc., to include a proton-exchange membrane (PEM) electrolyzer, high-pressure hydrogen and oxygen storage tanks, and a PEM fuel cell. The system operates in a closed water loop. A prototype system was constructed, including an experimental PEM electrolyzer and combined gas/water storage tanks. Testing goals included general system feasibility, characterization of the electrolyzer performance, performance of the electrolyzer as a compressor, and evaluation of the system for direct-coupled use with a photovoltaic (PV) array. When integrated with a PV array, this type of system is expected to provide reliable, environmentally benign power to remote installations. If grid-coupled, this system (without the PV array) would provide high-quality backup power to critical systems such as telecommunications and medical facilities. |
