THYPEL

THermal management of HYdrogen Production ELectrolysers (THYPEL)

Hydrogen as an energy carrier is essential for the energy transition, energy storage, and decarbonization, especially when produced from excess renewable electricity, known as green hydrogen. Water electrolysis for hydrogen production is a priority alternative in the current energy landscape.

There are various technologies, all facing two common challenges: increasing efficiency and improving the durability of electrolyzers, particularly considering voltage fluctuations caused by the intermittent nature of renewable energy sources (such as wind and solar power).

Voltage discontinuities create thermal gradients within the electrolyzer, affecting the membrane and accelerating its degradation. Additionally, if the interruption lasts long enough, the electrolyzer cools down, and restoring its operating temperature incurs an additional energy cost, which directly reduces system efficiency. This effect is significant in low-temperature electrolyzers (PEMEL – Proton Exchange Membrane Electrolyzer, <80ºC) and critical in high-temperature electrolyzers (SOEL – Solid Oxide Electrolyzer, 700-800ºC). Thermal management is also crucial under normal operating conditions, where, despite the electrochemical reaction being endothermic, system irreversibilities generate heat, requiring continuous cooling.

The main objective of THYPEL is to identify best practices to improve the thermal management of water electrolyzers for green hydrogen production. The innovative strategies developed in THYPEL will help reduce energy costs, both under normal operating conditions and when reconditioning electrolyzers after power supply interruptions due to the use of surplus renewable energy.