Solar-hydrogen hybrid system integrated to a sustainable house in Mexico

• Published in: International journal of hydrogen energy 2016-11, Vol.41 (43), p.19539-19545
• Main Authors: Yunez-Cano, A., González-Huerta, R. de G., Tufiño-Velázquez, M., Barbosa, R., Escobar, B.
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Energy balance analysis; Solar-hydrogen hybrid system; Sustainable house
• ISSN: 0360-3199; 1879-3487
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2016.06.203

One of the most interesting energy development systems is the one based on hydrogen use and their integration with renewable energy sources. In fact, hydrogen can operate as a storage and carrying medium of these primary sources. An analytical model to size, analyze and assess the feasibility of a hybrid photovoltaic/hydrogen (PV/H2) energy conversion system using real weather data is presented in this work. The analysis considers an energy balance and electrical variables of the system components; the sub-systems efficacy are calculated and proposed the improvements to increase the efficiency, using surplus energy produced by hybrid system. Solar radiation measurements was gotten from a meteorological monitoring station which is placed in the roof of the sustainable house and located in Mexico City north side. The PV/H2 system delivered electric power from a primary source (PV) to feed the electric load and surplus energy is supplied to electrolyzer in order to generate hydrogen, while energy deficit hours a PEMFC covers part the electric demand. Therefore, the hybrid system efficacy is calculated by energy stored level and electric load required. •A backup photovoltaic–hydrogen hybrid system applied to a house in Mexico.•The PV system is a primary source to satisfy the electric load.•Surplus energy is fed to an electrolyzer in order to generate hydrogen.•The hydrogen system ensures adequate power supply during emergency.•The design strategy is to apply a parametric combination of the subsystem power.