Energy Storage Through a Regenerative Hydrogen Fuel Cell in a Hybrid System of Renewable Energy for Power Generation
Nkwambe, Mwamba S.
Sutherland, Trudy
Seodigeng, Tumisang
Musamba, Banza
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How to Cite

Nkwambe M.S., Sutherland T., Seodigeng T., Musamba B., 2024, Energy Storage Through a Regenerative Hydrogen Fuel Cell in a Hybrid System of Renewable Energy for Power Generation, Chemical Engineering Transactions, 108, 73-78.
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Abstract

From the perspective of reducing the use of fossil fuels, there has been recent interest in hybridizing the renewable energy system for power generation. Energy storage systems are an integral part of hybrid renewable energy systems, and hydrogen storage is one of the newest storage systems. In this study, a new emerging energy storage system called hydrogen storage is integrated into the hybrid system of photovoltaics and wind turbines for power generation in a stand-alone application. This integration was verified using mathematical and dynamic models in MATLAB/Simulink. The results depend on factors such as solar radiation, wind speed, hydrogen stored, and the energy consumption of a rural house over two days. The findings showed that combining two energy sources for power generation was more effective than using a single source. The maximum combined output voltage and current of the photovoltaic and wind turbine systems were 351.6 V and 16.84 A, compared to 180 V and 10 A provided by each energy source separately. For one day of self-sufficient operation, the hydrogen stored in the tank was used to power a Proton Exchange Membrane fuel cell, ensuring a continuous power supply regardless of solar radiation or wind speed fluctuations. This study will catalyze further research by providing information about the hybrid hydrogen storage system for power generation. It aims to improve the reliability and cost-effectiveness of renewable energy and demonstrate the competitiveness of hydrogen storage compared to battery storage, ultimately contributing to its commercialization.
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