Integrated Design and Construction of a 50 kW Flexible Hybrid Renewable Power Hydrogen System Testbed

We report on the first stage of an energy systems integration project to develop hybrid renewable energy generation and storage of hydrogen for subsequent use via research-based low regret system testbeds. This study details the design and construction of a flexible plug-and-play hybrid renewable power and hydrogen system testbed with up to 50 kW capacity aimed at addressing and benchmarking the operational parameters of the system as well as key components when commissioned. The system testbed configuration includes three different solar technologies, three different battery technologies, two different electrolyser technologies, hydrogen storage, and a fuel cell for regenerative renewable power. Design constraints include the current limit of an AC microgrid, regulations for grid-connected inverters, power connection inefficiencies, and regulated hazardous area approval. We identify and show the resolution of systems integration challenges encountered during construction that may benefit planning for the emerging pilot, or testbed, configurations at other sites. These testbed systems offer the opportunity for informed decisions on economic viability for commercial-scale industry applications.