Operating strategies of a multi-stack PEM electrolyser for renewable hydrogen generation

This article proposes a methodology for the definition of operating strategies of a proton exchange membrane (PEM) multi-stack electrolyser, using a dynamic model that allows obtaining data on the evolution of electrochemical and thermal parameters of the stacks and the electrolyser. The simulation results of three operating strategies of the electrolyser, coupled to an existing photovoltaic plant, are presented, considering efficiency, degradation and hydrogen production aspects. A daisy chain power allocation strategy presents promising results regarding average hydrogen production rate and minimum number of operating hours. This and other possible operating strategies will be later validated by integrating the electrolyser into an experimental microgrid.