Authors:
Antonio José Calderón
;
Francisco Javier Folgado
;
David Calderón
and
Isaías González
Affiliation:
Department of Electrical Engineering, Electronics and Automation, Universidad de Extremadura, Avenida de Elvas, s/n, 06006, Badajoz, Spain
Keyword(s):
PEM Electrolyzer, Hydrogen, Renewable Energies, Smart Microgrid, Simulation.
Abstract:
In the last decades, hydrogen has been a trend in the energy sector as it has been employed as an energy carrier in applications based on Renewable Energy Sources (RES). In this context, RES-based smart grids and microgrids use devices called electrolyzers to generate hydrogen. The implementation of this device in a real installation faces difficulties due to its complex operation and the diversity of variables involved. Therefore, a prior study is essential to understand the behavior of these devices and to achieve correct implementation and management. This paper describes the application of a simulation platform for the study of Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolyzers (PEMEL), as well as the comparison of the data obtained through simulation and those reported from an experimental PEMEL operating within a RES-powered smart microgrid hybridized with green hydrogen. The principle of operation of the simulation platform is presented together with the models selected for this research.
The experimental PEMEL is framed in the operation of the smart microgrid, where its automation equipment and the interaction between them are described. Furthermore, the process followed to obtain the simulated and experimental data is detailed. Finally, a case study is reported where simulated and experimental results are compared.
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