Optimized solar powered hydrogen production, storage and utilization for fuel cell electric vehicle (FCEV) model: a sustainable energy solution

Continue depletion of fossil fuels at an alarming rate and environmental concerns are escalate, hydrogen emerges as a green and sustainable energy source. Hydrogen has a crucial role in the transition away from fossil fuel dependent energy systems. There are multiple sources and technologies available for the production of hydrogen. A multitude of conventional methods has a significant impact on greenhouse gas emissions due to their high production costs and inefficiency. The study presents a comprehensive model for the production, storage, and utilization of green hydrogen, by addressing the inadequacies and higher costs related to conventional methods. This model incorporates a PV array to generate electricity, powering an electrolyzer that splits water into hydrogen and oxygen. The hydrogen produced is stored and then employed in a fuel cell electric vehicle that is equipped with a Proton Exchange Membrane Fuel Cell, thus generating electric power and powering the vehicle. The proposed system is modelled and simulated in TRNSYS software and ensures efficient and sustainable energy use for transportation by optimizing hydrogen production with solar power availability. The results show that PV system generates peak electric power from April to June, with corresponding fuel cell output peaking in August and hydrogen storage reaching 658 Nm³ in May. This allows the system to charge a Toyota Mirai car up to 12 times, providing a driving range of approximately 3552 miles during peak production months.