A review of water electrolysis–based systems for hydrogen production using hybrid/solar/wind energy systems

Abstract

Hydrogen energy, as clean and efficient energy, is considered significant support for the construction of a sustainable society in the face of global climate change and the looming energy revolution. Hydrogen is one of the most important chemical substances on earth and can be obtained through various techniques using renewable and nonrenewable energy sources. However, the necessity for a gradual transition to renewable energy sources significantly hampers efforts to identify and implement green hydrogen production paths. Therefore, this paper’s objective is to provide a technological review of the systems of hydrogen production from solar and wind energy utilizing several types of water electrolyzers. The current paper starts with a short brief about the different production techniques. A detailed comparison between water electrolyzer types and a complete illustration of hydrogen production techniques using solar and wind are presented with examples, after which an economic assessment of green hydrogen production by comparing the costs of the discussed renewable sources with other production methods. Finally, the challenges that face the mentioned production methods are illuminated in the current review.