Two years experience in hydrogen production and use in Hope bay, Antarctica

• Published in: International journal of hydrogen energy 2012-10, Vol.37 (19), p.14773-14780
• Main Author: Aprea, José Luis
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Antarctica; Devices; Environment; Hydrogen; Land; Landscapes; Modules; Position (location); Renewable resources; Stations
• ISSN: 0360-3199; 1879-3487
• DOI: 10.1016/j.ijhydene.2012.01.165

Antarctica is a land of research, peace and one of the last refuges of pristine landscapes and pure environments of the planet. Therefore, the installation of a clean energy module at the Esperanza (HopeBay) Scientific Station of Argentina is one of the signs that opens new perspectives for the respect of the environment through the use of renewable energy sources with the aim of replacing fossil fuels currently used in the continent. This article briefly discusses the preparation, installation, commissioning and two years operation of an electrolytic hydrogen generator powered by wind and various devices designed for safe and reliable use of hydrogen for the benefit of the population of the station and visitors. We analyze the acceptance of the new technologies, the possibility of feeding the module independently from local renewable resources and the difficulties encountered due to the extreme conditions at the location. ► Hydrogen production by electrolysis using renewable energy in a remote location in Antarctica. ► Investigation of local water sources for electrolysis. ► Hydrogen applications were implemented successfully and well accepted. ► Wind generation was the weakest link of the system. ► 30bar Pressure alkaline electrolyzer produced hydrogen with no significant problems for two years.