Optimal design of a hybrid power generation system based on integrating PEM fuel cell and PEM electrolyzer as a moderator for micro-renewable energy systems

Proton exchange membrane fuel cell (PEMFC) and proton exchange membrane electrolyzer cell (PEMEC) are integrated for power generation and reduce power production fluctuations of renewable energy technologies. For this purpose, the three-dimensional model of the PEMFC and PEMEC are numerically simulated. Afterward, the integrated power generation system performance is evaluated in terms of power output, efficiency, and levelized cost of electricity. The performance analysis showed the necessity of multi-objective optimization for the power generation system. In this regard, three scenarios are considered for optimization. In the first case, power output and efficiency, and in the second scenario, power output and levelized cost are considered objective functions. Finally, in the third scenario, the three abovementioned parameters are considered three objective functions. For choosing the final optimal solution, decision-making techniques are employed. Results of decision-making techniques showed that the third scenario was the complete case to optimize the system. Furthermore, the TOPSIS method provided a more favorable final optimal solution with the lowest value for the levelized cost of the system, 0.498 $.kWh-1, while the efficiency and output power of the power generation system were 0.323 and 1801.87 W m- 2, respectively. Considering that the efficiency and cost of the PEMFCs and PEMECs are expected to improve drastically over time, these systems could be a promising option for power generation applications.

Automated summary

This study investigated proton exchange membrane fuel cells (PEMFC) and proton exchange membrane electrolyzer cells (PEMEC) through numerical simulations, highlighting the importance of multi-objective optimization for power generation systems. The TOPSIS method was used to determine the optimal solution that balanced efficiency and cost.