A direct coupled photovoltaic - electrolyser system for producing green hydrogen

Abstract This study focuses on the direct coupling between photovoltaic modules (PV) and Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolysers (PEMEC) through data collection to ascertain an optimal and highly efficient operational configuration. The objective is to align the maximum power point line (MPPL) of PV panels with the current-voltage (I-V) characteristic curve of the electrolyser, thereby obviating the need for a DC to DC converter and simplifying the connection while reducing costs and losses. We utilized a polarization curve of Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolyser modelled in COMSOL Multiphysics software and a single PV module with a peak power of 220W. This arrangement necessitates thorough sizing and investigation to achieve maximum system efficiency and green hydrogen production.