H2A Case Study: Current Central Grid Electrolysis

Project Summary

Full Title:	H2A Case Study: Current (2005) Hydogen Production from Central Grid Electrolysis
Project ID:	232
Principal Investigator:	Todd Ramsden
Keywords:	Hydrogen production; electrolysis; grid; water

Purpose

The purpose of this analysis was to analyze the technical and economic aspects of a process for production of hydrogen from the electrolysis of water using grid-based electricity.

Performer

Principal Investigator:	Todd Ramsden
Organization:	National Renewable Energy Laboratory (NREL)
Address:	1617 Cole Blvd. Golden, CO 80401-3393
Telephone:	303-275-3704
Email:	Todd_Ramsden@nrel.gov

Sponsor(s)

Name:	Fred Joseck
Organization:	DOE/EERE/HFCIT
Telephone:	202-586-7932
Email:	Fred.Joseck@ee.doe.gov

Period of Performance

Start:	February 2005
End:	May 2008

Project Description

Type of Project:	Analysis
Category:	Hydrogen Fuel Pathways

Methodology/Approach:	Material and energy balances done manually, equipment costing and performance from projections and quotes.

Models Used:	H2A Production Model

Timeframe Studied:	2005

Products/Deliverables

	Description: Spreadsheet Analysis Publication Title: Current (2005) Hydogen Production from Central Grid Electrolysis Publisher: National Renewable Energy Laboratory Author Name(s): Steward, Darlene http://www.hydrogen.energy.gov/h2a_prod_studies.html Publication Date: May 2008

Notes/Comments:	The system modeled is a standalone grid powered electrolyzer system with a total hydrogen production capacity of 52,300 kg/day. The system is based on the Hydro bi-polar alkaline electrolyzer system (Atmospheric Type No.5040 - 5150 Amp DC). The total electrolyzer system consists of 50 electrolyer units, each capable of producing 1,046 kg of hydrogen per day (485 Nm3 H2 per hour). The electrolyzer units use process water for electrolysis, and cooling water for cooling. KOH is needed for the electrolyte in the system. The system includes the follwing equipment: Transformer, Thyristor, Electrolyzer Unit, Lye Tank, Feed Water Demineralizer, Hydrogen Scrubber, Gas Holder, 2 Compressor Units to 30 bar (435 psig), Deoxidizer, Twin Tower Dryer.

Notes/Comments:

The system modeled is a standalone grid powered electrolyzer system with a total hydrogen production capacity of 52,300 kg/day. The system is based on the Hydro bi-polar alkaline electrolyzer system (Atmospheric Type No.5040 - 5150 Amp DC). The total electrolyzer system consists of 50 electrolyer units, each capable of producing 1,046 kg of hydrogen per day (485 Nm3 H2 per hour). The electrolyzer units use process water for electrolysis, and cooling water for cooling. KOH is needed for the electrolyte in the system. The system includes the follwing equipment: Transformer, Thyristor, Electrolyzer Unit, Lye Tank, Feed Water Demineralizer, Hydrogen Scrubber, Gas Holder, 2 Compressor Units to 30 bar (435 psig), Deoxidizer, Twin Tower Dryer.

Date Last Updated: 10/01/2008