High-power converter systems for hydrogen production

Hydrogen production from renewable energy through water electrolysis is one valuable option to reduce CO2 emissions. More and larger electrolysis systems can potentially cover an increasing demand for hydrogen. In this context, thyristor-based and voltage-source converters are presented and discussed for power ratings in the high megawatt range. The basic converter types are analyzed with a focus on the electrical characteristics and the system design. The described differences are significant for systems that consist of many electrolyzer units with a total installed capacity of up to a hundred megawatts and more.